Glaucoma occurs when a person’s optic nerve is damaged. This is typically due to increased interocular pressure. If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to permanent vision loss. Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness in people all over the world. We can help slow down the progression of glaucoma here at Springfield Opticians with locations in Holmes, Springfield, and Chadds Ford.
Causes and Symptoms of Glaucoma
Many factors can contribute to glaucoma. The most common factor that can lead to glaucoma in intraocular eye pressure. The drainage canals can become clogged with tiny deposits, leading to the fluid can build up in the eye until it is left with nowhere to go. The excess fluid results in pressure on the eye, eventually leading to optic nerve damage.
Symptoms of glaucoma depend on the type of glaucoma a person is suffering from. Symptoms come on gradually with open-angle glaucoma. This means that they can easily go unnoticed. This is why it is so important for individuals to undergo regular eye exams so glaucoma can be diagnosed and treated before vision loss is allowed to occur. Glaucoma should be detected early on since any damage that may occur is irreversible.
Symptoms are more severe and come on suddenly with closed-angle glaucoma. However, with both types of glaucoma, you may experience:
- Headaches
- Red eyes
- Blurred vision, low vision, or narrowed vision
- Eye pressure or eye pain
- Nausea or vomiting
- Halos around lights
Diagnosis and Treatment
To diagnose glaucoma, our optometrist may perform one or more of the following tests:
- Visual acuity test
- Visual field test
- Slit-lamp exam
- Pachymetry
- Ocular pressure test
- Optical coherence tomography
- Dilated eye exam
- Gonioscopy
If glaucoma is not treated, permanent vision loss can occur. Treatments for glaucoma are designed to slow down the progression of the disease and prevent any additional vision loss. However, vision that has already been lost cannot be recovered. Treatment options for glaucoma include:
- Medication or eye drops: These are given by a prescription to increase drainage and decrease fluid buildup.
- Laser treatment: A laser may be used to help promote fluid drainage. Results can last up to five years.
- Surgery: As a last resort, surgery can be performed to prevent further vision loss from occurring.
Glaucoma Treatment in Holmes, Springfield, and Chadds Ford
If you are looking for glaucoma treatment in Chadds Ford, Holmes, or Springfield, contact Springfield Opticians today. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call us today or request an appointment online.