A diagnosis of glaucoma signals the beginning of a lifetime of treatment for this eye disease. Since it carries the threat of eventual blindness, patients who visit Elite Vision Eyecare undergo screening for this condition during their comprehensive vision exam from our optometrist in Longmont. With the correct treatment, it is possible to halt or at least slow the progression of this disorder.
Understanding Glaucoma
Glaucoma is an incurable eye disease. Excessive pressure exerted by fluid in the eye on the optic nerve triggers its development. This fluid accumulates when aqueous humor is unable to circulate properly within the eye.
Saving as much of the patient’s vision as possible is the objective of our doctor of optometry. It is possible to suffer from glaucoma in only one eye or both and experience differing degrees of severity when both eyes are involved.
There are two types of glaucoma. Open-angle occurs much more frequently than angle-closure glaucoma.
Since patients have few signs in their early stages, often it is advanced before an eye doctor diagnoses the condition. The most common symptoms include:
- Blurry vision
- Eyes that look cloudy
- Loss of some peripheral vision
- Headaches
- Seeing halos surrounding lights
- Eye pain
Risk factors include being at least 40 years old, being diabetic, experiencing eye trauma, having poor sight, and taking corticosteroids. Individuals with a Russian, Irish, African-American, Japanese, Hispanic, or Scandinavian ancestry also face above-average risk.
Some patients have a family history of glaucoma. Other potential factors include blocked blood vessels, eye injuries resulting from force or a chemical, certain inflammatory disorders, and infections.
Treatment Options from Our Optometry Practice
Once a patient receives a glaucoma diagnosis, we will create a customized treatment plan to reduce pressure on the optic nerve. The best results occur with an early diagnosis and care.
The primary therapy to slow or even stop the disease is prescription eye drops. If they prove ineffective, various laser surgery procedures create options that permit fluid to drain from the affected eye and reduce pressure on the optic nerve. Additional surgical options are available when laser surgery is futile.
Schedule an Exam with Our Optometrist in Maywood, NJ
Whether your need is eyewear to correct your vision or treatment for an eye disease such as glaucoma, we at Elite Vision Eyecare are committed to providing the highest standard of optometry treatment. We are a full-service practice offering advanced optometric techniques to help you maintain the best vision possible. Call us today at (201) 845-4700 for more information or to schedule an appointment with our eye doctor.