What Is Glaucoma And How Is It Treated?

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of vision loss, affecting many people worldwide. Here at Fall River Vision in Fall River, MA, we understand how daunting it can feel to learn about eye diseases but we’re here to break down the basics of glaucoma and explain the treatment options available.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, often due to increased pressure within the eye. The optic nerve plays a critical role in sending visual information to the brain, so when it’s damaged, it can lead to irreversible vision loss. This disease often develops without noticeable symptoms, which is why glaucoma is sometimes called the “silent thief of sight.”

There are several types of glaucoma, but the two most common are:

•             Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma: This is the most common type, where fluid in the eye drains too slowly, causing pressure to build up gradually. Open-angle glaucoma often has no symptoms until noticeable vision loss occurs.

•             Angle-Closure Glaucoma: This less common form occurs when the drainage angle in the eye becomes blocked suddenly, causing a rapid increase in eye pressure. This is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention.

Risk Factors for Glaucoma

Anyone can develop glaucoma, but certain factors increase the risk, including age (especially over 60), a family history of glaucoma, being of African, Asian, or Hispanic descent, having high eye pressure, and certain health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure.

Symptoms to Watch for

In its early stages, glaucoma may have no symptoms, making regular eye exams crucial for early detection. As the condition progresses, symptoms may include a gradual loss of peripheral vision, seeing halos around lights, eye pain, blurred vision, and in severe cases, sudden eye pain or headache.

How Is Glaucoma Treated?

The goal of glaucoma treatment is to reduce intraocular pressure (eye pressure) and prevent further damage to the optic nerve. Treatment options vary based on the type and severity of glaucoma but may include the following:

1.            Eye Drops

Medicated eye drops are often the first line of treatment for glaucoma. These drops help reduce eye pressure by either decreasing the production of fluid or improving drainage. They require regular use, and the optometrist at Fall River Vision can advise on the best type for your condition.

2.            Laser Therapy

Laser treatments, such as selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) for open-angle glaucoma or laser peripheral iridotomy for angle-closure glaucoma, can help improve fluid drainage. These procedures are usually quick, with minimal discomfort, and may help reduce or eliminate the need for daily eye drops.

3.            Surgery

For more advanced cases, surgery may be recommended to create a new drainage pathway for the eye fluid. Procedures like trabeculectomy or glaucoma drainage implants can provide long-term pressure relief, particularly for patients who haven’t responded well to other treatments.

Get an Eye Exam, Eye Care, Glaucoma Treatment, Eye Doctor Services, and Glaucoma Doctor Services from an Optometrist Near You

Because glaucoma is often silent in its early stages, regular eye exams are essential for catching it early. At Fall River Vision in Fall River, MA, we’re dedicated to thorough eye care, using advanced diagnostic tools to detect changes in eye pressure and optic nerve health before symptoms appear. With early treatment, we can help manage glaucoma and protect your vision. Call us at (508) 673-2370 for an eye exam, eye care, glaucoma treatment, eye doctor services, and glaucoma doctor services from an optometrist near you.