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Glaucoma

Slow the progression of this silent thief of sight.

Glaucoma is an eye disease that causes damage to your optic nerve.  It has no early symptoms and is nicknamed the sneak thief of sight.It typically results from a build-up of fluid in the front part of the eye.The pressure caused by this extra fluid damages the optic nerve, leading to blindness.

Left untreated, glaucoma can result in permanent and complete blindness in a short period of time. The seriousness of this common eye disease underscores the importance of having regular eye exams.

What are the symptoms of glaucoma?

Glaucoma doesn’t usually display any symptoms in the early stages, which is why early detection during yearly eye exams is essential.

The following are possible outcomes of glaucoma:

  • Halos surrounding lights
  • Redness in your eyes
  • Vomiting and/or nausea
  • Eye pain
  • Loss of peripheral vision
  • Narrowed, or tunnel, vision

Who is at risk for developing glaucoma?

Anyone can develop glaucoma. But in most cases, it affects adults age 40 and older.

Other risk factors include:

  • Diabetes
  • Trauma to the eye
  • Taking certain medications such as prednisone
  • Family history of glaucoma

How is glaucoma diagnosed and treated?

During an eye exam, your eye care provider will check your eye pressure and dilate your pupils to examine the back of your eye, including the optic nerve. You’ll likely also undergo tests such as a visual field exam to check your peripheral vision.

If you do have glaucoma, the treatment plan will depend on the severity of the condition. Typical options include eye drops, laser surgery, or microsurgery. The least invasive treatment is preferred, but severe cases may require surgery immediately in order to alleviate fluid blockages.

At Crete Family Eyecare, we partner with you to protect the health of your eyes and your vision. Learn more about your eyes and risk for glaucoma by calling our office for an appointment.