Posted by: Aker Kasten Eye Center in Glaucoma on February 28, 2018
Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of legal blindness. Fortunately, if apprehended in time, the disease can be controlled and managed. Glaucoma is a disease of the optic nerve. The optic nerve plays an integral role in taking information from the eye to the brain. Those with glaucoma often lose their peripheral vision before they experience complete blindness. We will discuss the different types of glaucoma and treatment methods available.
The types of glaucoma
There are three specific types of glaucoma: open angle glaucoma (OAG), closed angle glaucoma (CAG), and congenital glaucoma.
- Open-angle glaucoma is the most common type in Canada and the United States. It typically impacts both of the eyes at the same time and gets worse very slowly.
- Closed-angle glaucoma is not common in the U.S. and Canada. It affects one eye before affecting the second one. This form can occur abruptly to the point that it can be a medical emergency.
- A congenital glaucoma is a rare form of the disease. This is the kind that some infants have at birth. Sometimes children and young adults can get this type.
What causes glaucoma?
Studies have not been able to identify a specific cause for glaucoma, but scientists believe that an increase in pressure to the eye is causing nerve damage. Though this is true for many with glaucoma, some people with the disease have normal eye pressure. It is possible to get glaucoma after an eye injury.
How is glaucoma treated?
Glaucoma is not curable, but there are treatments that can help you manage and control the condition. For instance, to stop the disease from progressing, certain medicines (like eye drops) may be prescribed for everyday use. Laser treatment surgery and regular checkups may be required as well. Corticosteroids are sometimes used to treat glaucoma as well as other diseases.
Schedule a consultation
If you have concerns about maintaining healthy vision, contact Aker Kasten Eye Center today. Our office in Boca Raton, Florida can be reached by calling (561) 338-7722. We look forward to helping you achieve and maintain healthy vision.