Glaucoma

Glaucoma is often hereditary and commonly affects people over age 40.  It was once known as the ”silent thief of vision” because it is usually a painless condition. Vision loss can be so gradual it goes unnoticed. There are several different types of glaucoma.  The most common is open angle glaucoma.  This type is often associated with high intraocular pressure, or IOP for short.  The next most common form is narrow angle glaucoma.  This type can result in severe pain, very high intraocular pressure, nausea, and can result in loss of vision.  It can be prevented with LASER procedures and sometimes cataract surgery.  The optic nerve carries the signal from your eye to your brain so your brain can process visual images.  Because optic nerve tissue cannot regenerate any vision loss from glaucoma is permanent.  It is important to have an annual eye exam because if detected early glaucoma is a treatable and manageable condition.  There are many excellent treatment options ranging from topical drops to LASER procedures that can help control intraocular pressure (IOP) for up to 5 years.  If detected early, glaucoma is manageable and vision loss can be prevented.