Astigmatism
Blepharitis
Cataracts
Conjunctivitis (Pink
Eye)
Diabetic Retinopathy
Dry Eye Syndrome
Glaucoma
Hyperopia (Farsightedness)
Keratoconus
Macular Degeneration
Myopia (Nearsightedness)
Presbyopia (Reading
Vision)
Retinal Detachment |
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a degenerative disease that if left
untreated can cause permanent damage to the
optic nerve, resulting in gradual vision loss
and eventual blindness. Damage to the optic
nerve due to glaucoma is usually caused by an
elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). Clear
fluid, called aqueous humor, circulates through
the eye to provide nourishment to the tissue and
applies pressure to help maintain the shape of
the eye.
Vision loss from glaucoma is permanent, but can
be prevented with early detection and treatment.
Glaucoma management is usually a lifelong
process that requires frequent monitoring and
constant treatment. Since there is no way to
determine if glaucoma is under control based on
how a person feels, doctor visits should be on a
regular basis.
Treatment concentrates on lowering the pressure
inside the eye to prevent optic nerve damage.
Eye drops are most commonly used to control
glaucoma, however, they can be very expensive,
have unwanted side effects, and may need to be
taken for the rest of your life. If non-surgical
methods fail to decrease pressure, surgery may
be required. |
