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. |
