Glaucoma is an eye problem that could result in damage to the optic disc, a loss of vision and in some cases, blindness. It involves high pressure in the eye that could cause headaches, pain and other symptoms. If you are suffering from any of these problems, call Carter Eye Center and schedule an appointment.
The risk of developing this condition is dependent on, age, race and corneal thickness. Diabetes, injury to the eye and low blood pressure are also noted during the pre-diagnosis stage. This disease may affect one or both eyes. If the patient does not receive adequate treatment, it can more than likely end up causing the patient losing peripheral vision or can even cause them to become blind.
Carter Eye Center reviews each case carefully to determine whether Glaucoma is the problem.
Treatment
Prompt treatment of this condition is the best way to limit or even eliminate unwanted symptoms, and to promote healthy eye vision. Remembering to have an eye exam can help your doctor to identify symptoms of the disease and give you the best chance of recovery. Medication and injections can help sustain your symptoms and pain and can also slow or even halt the development of the disease.
Screening/Exams
Eye examinations can be the most obvious way to identify glaucoma in patients. Peripheral vision is measured using the visual field test. A dilated eye exam involves the use of eye drops to widen the pupils, so that a doctor can examine the retina and optic nerve. A test known as the visual acuity test allows doctors to assess a patient's ability to see objects at varying distances. To measure the cornea, numbing eye drops are administered and an ultrasonic wave is used. Finally, pressure in the eye is measured using tonometry.
Medication
Prescription eye drops or pills may decrease the amount of pressure in the eye and can also reduce fluid. Medication often has to be taken regularly throughout the day and can cause reactions and side effects in users. In the majority of cases, patients will be required to continue taking the medication indefinitely to control the disease.
Conventional Surgery to Treat the Glaucoma Condition
Conventional surgery is often thought of as a last resort option. It is used to remove a portion of eye tissue that creates a channel for fluid to drain from. In time, this drainage channel may start to become narrow, requiring an additional operation. This treatment may cause issues such as cornea problems, inflammation and infection.
Laser Surgery to Treat the Glaucoma Condition
Glaucoma patients are able to have this surgery on each eye, one at a time. Laser trabeculoplasty helps the draining process by using a laser beam. This stretches the drainage holes to enable enhanced drainage and to reduce the pressure which has built up in the eye.
Lifestyle Changes to Help Treat or Reduce Glaucoma
In order to reduce the chances of contracting this condition, patients should try to maintain a healthy weight in order to reduce the chances of developing diabetes, as diabetics are twice as likely to suffer from glaucoma. It is also advisable to wear eye protection to eliminate the risk of preventable eye injuries.
While LASIK surgery may not be an option for most glaucoma patients, a small proportion with a stable condition can be helped by the procedure. Additionally, there is help available, in the form of custom laser surgery for patients with this eye complaint. Consulting with a professional like Dr Harvey Carter is the best way to determine your candidacy.
