Glaucoma is a disease that gradually damages the optic nerve, which is responsible for transmitting visual information from the eyes to the brain. It is the leading cause of irreversible blindness, according to the National Institute of Health.
Nicknamed “the silent thief of sight”, Glaucoma does not present many symptoms early on. Routine eye exams are critical for early diagnoses.
Causes
Risk factors of Glaucoma include elevated eye pressure, a family history of the disease and certain medical conditions like diabetes or prolonged use of steroid medications. The risk of Glaucoma increases with age.
Progression
As Glaucoma progresses, peripheral vision loss, blurred vision, difficulty adjusting to low light, and the appearance of halos around lights may occur. Early diagnosis and proper management significantly slow the progression of Glaucoma.
Diagnoses
Optical Coherence Tomography is a non-invasive imaging technique that takes detailed pictures of the inside of the eye, including the retina and optic nerve. By looking at these images, our doctors can identify signs of glaucoma, such as changes in the optic nerve. These images are also important for monitoring progression of the disease.
Treatment
Our doctors may prescribe eye drops to lower intraocular pressure, or oral medications, and may suggest laser therapy or surgical procedures in more extreme cases. With patient-centered care, our doctors consider the type, severity, and causes of patients’ Glaucoma to determine the best treatment plan.
It is never too early to prioritize your eye health. Take the first step today and schedule an eye exam – a short visit with the doctors at Harvard Square Eye Care protects your vision and quality of life.
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