Glaucoma is a severe eye condition that affects the optic nerve. Without intervention, it can result in permanent blindness. At Highland Family Eye Care in St. Paul, we often run into questions regarding the detection and treatment of glaucoma. Let’s look at some of those questions and how we can help.
What Is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a disease that destroys the fibers that make up the optic nerve. The optic nerve relays visual information to the brain for eyesight.
What are the Different Types of Glaucoma?
There are different types of glaucoma, but the two main types are open-angle and closed-angle. Open-angle is more common and it produces gradual vision loss, beginning with peripheral vision loss. Closed-angle glaucoma causes the pressure in your eyes to rise.
What Are the Symptoms of Glaucoma?
Glaucoma can be a challenging disease because it does not have any symptoms during the early stages. As it progresses, it causes the loss of peripheral vision. Other common symptoms of the disease include:
- Severe eye pain
- Headaches
- Nausea and vomiting
- Blurry vision
- Experiencing halos around lights
Any troubling symptoms should be addressed by Dr. Snyder immediately. Routine eye exams are your best defense for detecting glaucoma in the early stages.
How is Glaucoma Diagnosed?
Glaucoma is diagnosed during an eye exam. Our eye doctor will check your optic nerve and the pressure in your eyes. These standard tests can diagnose glaucoma. We will also complete a visual field test to determine if you have lost any peripheral vision. We may also take pictures of the optic nerve to track the progression of the disease.
How is Glaucoma Treated?
Unfortunately, there is no cure for glaucoma. However, several treatments can slow the progression of the disease. These treatments include:
- Eye Drops: They are prescribed to help keep the pressure under control. This treatment is the most common.
- Laser Surgery: Surgery is performed to increase the flow of fluid in the eyes. It can also stop fluid blockage.
- Trabeculectomy: This procedure creates a new channel to drain the fluid and reduce pressure in the eyes.
Contact Highland Family Eye Care in St. Paul, MN
Glaucoma is manageable as long as it is diagnosed early. At Highland Family Eye Care, we provide exceptional eye care for our patients with glaucoma. If you have concerns about glaucoma or it has been a while since your last eye exam, call our team today at (651) 699-5400 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.