Posted by: Mann Eye in Ask The Experts, Eye Health
Glaucoma is a slowly progressive and typically painless disorder where the optic nerve slowly dies and peripheral vision progressively decreases. It is a leading cause of preventable blindness in the US and world…emphasis on PREVENTABLE.
Since glaucoma causes little to no pain, most patients have no idea they have it, and it can go untreated for years or decades. Vision loss is irreversible. For this reason, early detection is so important!
What Causes Glaucoma and How is it Treated?
Glaucoma can stem from trauma, other diseases, and even your genetics. The exact cause is unknown. But technically speaking, the passages that normally allow fluid within your eye to drain become clogged or blocked, increasing pressure on the optic nerve. The increased pressure can damage nerve fibers and blood vessels, resulting in vision loss.
The most critical step to knowing if you have glaucoma and if it is stable is prevention by visiting your local eye health provider.
While there is no cure for glaucoma at this time, it can be controlled and stabilized by maintaining proper eye pressure. It’s important to choose a trusted and experienced doctor for the management of your condition.
The goal of treatment at Mann Eye Institute is to preserve your current level of vision and to prevent further vision loss. Treatment can vary, depending on the type of glaucoma diagnosed, the degree to which it has progressed, your underlying risk factors and more. Treatment falls into the following categories:
- Eyedrops
- Laser treatments (Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty and Laser Peripheral Iridotomy)
- Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS)
- Conventional surgery
We have the experienced staff, caring physicians, and up-to-date technology to diagnose and treat your glaucoma before it becomes sight-threatening. An ounce of prevention is worth far more than a pound of cure. And when your sight is on the line, trust Mann Eye.