Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, often due to high eye pressure, and can lead to vision loss if untreated. Since it usually develops gradually without symptoms, regular eye exams are crucial for early detection and prevention.
What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a disease of the optic nerve most commonly associated with an increase in intraocular pressure (IOP) within the eye. Because there is no pain associated with it and the damage is gradual, glaucoma is often referred to as the “sneak thief of sight”.
Two of the most common forms of glaucoma are chronic open angle glaucoma and narrow angle glaucoma.
Open Angle Glaucoma
With open angle glaucoma, the structures within the eye appear normal, but for reasons not fully understood, the fluid within the eye (aqueous humor) is not able to drain properly. Aqueous humor is a clear liquid which constantly flows in and out of the eye, nourishing ocular tissue, carrying away waste, and keeping the pressure in the eye at a normal level. The production of this fluid must be balanced by an equal amount of drainage, and an imbalance will cause the pressure in the eye to rise. If too high, this pressure can damage the optic nerve and the blood vessels from which it receives nourishment. If left untreated, the result is usually a slow loss of peripheral vision and eventual blindness. The good news is, if it is diagnosed early, the disease can be controlled and permanent vision loss can be prevented.
Narrow Angle Glaucoma
Narrow angle glaucoma is characterized by abnormal structures in the front of the eye. These abnormal structures block the fluid from draining, causing an intense and sudden rise in intraocular pressure. Symptoms will often include blurred vision, redness in the eye, extreme pain, nausea and headaches. Acute closed angle glaucoma can result in blindness within days and should be treated as an emergency.
Am I At Risk for Glaucoma?
Glaucoma affects 2% of adults past the age of 40. In the early stages of glaucoma there are no symptoms and a high percentage of individuals with this disease are unaware they have it.
Studies have shown individuals at greater risk for glaucoma may fit one or more of the following criteria:
- Over the age of 40
- Family history of Glaucoma
- African-American ethnicity
- Hypertension
- Diabetes
Since early detection is critical to avoiding permanent loss of vision, individuals who possess any of the non-age-related risk factors should have a regular eye examination every year.
Detection: Ocular Coherence Tomography
Measure Intraocular Pressure (IOP):
This quick, painless test checks for elevated eye pressure.
Measure Corneal Thickness (Pachymetry):
Corneal thickness can have a direct effect on intraocular pressure. Corneas that are abnormally thick may give falsely high IOP readings, and if unchecked may lead to an inaccurate diagnosis. Conversely, thin corneas may give IOP readings that are falsely low, leading to the underdiagnosis of high intraocular pressure.
Evaluate the Optic Nerve
Using advanced Ocular Coherence Tomography (OCT) technology, a laser-scanning camera and software provide a detailed, non-invasive and painless assessment of the optic nerve.
Check for Vision Loss
If needed, a visual field test is conducted to detect any loss of peripheral or side vision.
This comprehensive approach helps detect glaucoma early, even before symptoms appear.
Glaucoma Treatment Options
While glaucoma has no cure, early detection is key to slowing its progression and preserving vision. Treatment options will be discussed with your doctor and depend on the type of glaucoma detected.
Depending on the type of glaucoma, medications in the form of eye drops or pills may be used to lower the eye pressure. Laser treatment or filter surgery may also be used to open the drainage system. With appropriate and timely therapy the potential for further damage to the optic nerve and resulting loss of vision is significantly reduced.
Treatments May Include
Treatment is Constantly Evolving
The field of glaucoma is constantly advancing, and we are proud to offer a wide range of effective options beyond the ones listed above. At Aker Kasten, we stay up to date on the latest innovations to provide you with personalized care tailored to your needs.
If you are concerned about glaucoma or have been diagnosed and want to explore your treatment options, schedule a consultation with us. Our experienced team will provide a thorough evaluation, discuss personalized treatment plans, and guide you in managing your eye health to protect your vision.
