Glaucoma is a condition characterized by an accumulation of fluid in the eye, causing increased pressure which can result in damage to the optic nerve. If left untreated, glaucoma may lead to a total loss of vision. In the United States, it is estimated that over 100,000 are blind due to glaucoma. The common type of glaucoma (open angle) has no symptoms in the early stage, but vision loss in later stages is permanent. Symptoms of the more rare type of glaucoma (angle closure) include blurred vision, headache, eye pain, a cloudy cornea, nausea, and vomiting.
TESTING
Testing for glaucoma includes measuring the eye pressure and evaluation of the optic nerve by an Ophthalmologist. Other measurements performed by our highly trained technicians include a computerized visual field evaluation of peripheral vision, retinal photos, ocular blood flow measurement, and evaluation of corneal thickness. These painless tests take approximately 30 minutes and provide very valuable information to the Ophthalmologist, to assist them in determining the best treatment plan for you.
TREATMENT
Treating glaucoma early is the best defense against preservation of vision, by preventing permanent damage to the optic nerve. To care for our patients with glaucoma, the ophthalmologists at the Castleman Eye Center use eye drops and/or a quick, painless application of LASER. For more information about glaucoma and the SLT LASER treatment, please click here.
Medicare Benefit!
Having a regular eye exam is the best way for people to protect themselves from vision loss or blindness due to glaucoma or diabetic eye disease.
People at highest risk include:
- People with diabetes
- Those with a family history of glaucoma
- African Americans age 50 or older
- Hispanics age 65 or older
For more information, click HERE (PDF File) |
