What is glaucoma?
Glaucoma is an eye condition known as the "silent thief of vision". It is a condition which the fluid in the eye does not flow normally resulting in increased pressure inside the eye. When the pressure rises inside the eye, optic nerve damage is caused. The optic nerve consists of the sensitive nerve fibers responsible for vision. If the nerve becomes damaged permanent blindness may result. The only known way of preventing this damage is to control the pressure inside the eye.
- There are no noticeable symptoms such as redness or pain.
- Glaucoma affects approximately 2% of the population over the age of 35.
- Glaucoma can cause permanent and serious vision loss, leaving you with tunnel vision.
Who can be affected with glaucoma?
- People with a family history of glaucoma
- People with systemic diseases such as diabetes, anemia or hardening of the arteries
- Prevalence is higher among African Americans and Hispanics
Glaucoma most often affects individuals over the age of 50, but anyone over the age of 35 should be screened at least every 2 years. A family history of glaucoma, having high blood pressure or high blood sugar may leave you at a higher risk for developing glaucoma and should be watched very closely with annual exams.
Because glaucoma is such an elusive disease, early detection and treatment is imperative. EyeCare Associates of Texas, P.A. offers one of the most comprehensive glaucoma diagnosis and treatment programs in the southern Dallas area.
Treatments Available
With glaucoma, you cannot regain any vision if lost so the proper treatment is very critical. Drops are used daily to keep the pressure under control and many new medications are available with little or no side effects.
If these medications do not control the elevated pressure or if the side effects are severe, the physicians of EyeCare Associates of Texas, P.A. offer the ALT, or Argon Laser Trabeculoplasty, which opens drainage holes in the eye allowing the fluid to flow more freely to reduce the high pressure and may eliminate the need for daily eye drops.
If this method does not control the elevated pressure, or if the optic nerve damage is too severe Dr. Trang Le, our fellowship trained glaucoma specialist, may suggest a valve replacement or shunt be placed in the eye to aid in the flow of fluid through the eye.
Early testing and an accurate diagnosis, along with long term treatment, are the keys to maintaining your vision.
Call our office today for your glaucoma evaluation.
Take good care of yourself. Don't let glaucoma limit your life.