Understanding Glaucoma: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Glaucoma, a leading cause of blindness, is a serious eye condition that often presents no symptoms until significant vision loss occurs. At Henderson Eye Care, we believe in the power of education to help our patients understand and manage their eye health. In this post, we’ll delve into causes, symptoms, and glaucoma treatments.

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is an eye condition that damages the optic nerve, which is vital for good vision. This damage is often caused by abnormally high pressure in your eye and can lead to irreversible blindness if left untreated.

Causes of Glaucoma

The exact cause of glaucoma is not known, but it’s usually associated with a build-up of pressure in the eye. This happens when the fluid in the eye (aqueous humor) doesn’t drain properly. Instead, the fluid accumulates, causing pressure to build up. The increased pressure can damage the optic nerve, which transmits images to the brain. If the damage continues, glaucoma can lead to permanent vision loss.

Symptoms of Glaucoma

Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” because it typically has no symptoms in its early stages. By the time symptoms appear, some permanent damage to the eye has usually already occurred. Symptoms can include:

• gradual loss of peripheral vision
• tunnel vision
• severe eye pain
• headache
• blurred vision
• halos around lights

It’s important to take note of these symptoms and seek medical attention immediately as they could indicate a severe form of glaucoma called acute angle-closure glaucoma, which is a medical emergency. 

Glaucoma Treatments at Henderson Eye Care

At Henderson Eye Care, we offer comprehensive glaucoma treatment options to help manage this condition and prevent further vision loss. After a thorough eye exam, Dr. Pamela R. Henderson may recommend one or more of the following treatments depending on the severity of the condition:

1. Eye Drops: These are the most common initial treatment and work by reducing the formation of fluid in the eye or increasing its outflow, thereby lowering eye pressure.
2. Oral Medications: In some cases, oral medications may be prescribed in addition to eye drops.
3. Surgery: Several surgical procedures can help drain excess fluid and relieve pressure in the eye. The type of surgery recommended will depend on the type and severity of your glaucoma.
   

Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that can cause irreversible vision loss if not treated promptly. Regular eye exams are vital for its early detection and effective glaucoma treatments. At Henderson Eye Care, we’re committed to providing our patients with comprehensive eye care services, including diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma.

If you have concerns about your vision or eye health, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help you navigate your eye health journey, ensuring you receive the best possible care and glaucoma treatments when necessary.