Understanding Glaucoma: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Management Strategies

Glaucoma is a tricky disease. It steals your sight slowly, without you even knowing. Most people do not realize they have it until they experience vision loss. Early detection and treatment will help in its prevention. If you have recently been diagnosed or are just curious, here is everything you need to know.

 

What Exactly Is Glaucoma?

At its core, glaucoma is a disease that damages the optic nerve. When the eye pressure becomes too high, it can hurt the optic nerve. This is what leads to vision loss in patients with glaucoma. The pressure is usually caused by the buildup of fluid inside the eye. It is not always obvious, which is why routine eye exams are so important.

 

Who Is at Risk?

People over 60, especially if you have a family history of the disease, should get regular eye checks. African Americans over 40 are also at higher risk. So are people with conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure. If you have any of these risk factors, do not wait; regular visits to the eye doctor are key.

 

How Do You Know If You Have Glaucoma?

One of the trickiest things about glaucoma is that there are often no symptoms at first. Many people do not notice any vision changes until the disease has progressed. That is why eye exams are crucial. During the eye exam, eye doctors measure your intraocular pressure (IOP). They will also look at the optic nerve and check your peripheral vision. If anything seems off, they may recommend further tests, such as a visual field test.

 

How Is Glaucoma Treated?

The good news is that while there is no cure for glaucoma, it is treatable. The primary goal here is to lower eye pressure and prevent further nerve damage. Doctors typically start with eye drops that lower pressure. These medications work by either improving eye drainage or decreasing fluid production. In some cases, oral medications may be added.

 

Common Treatment Options:

  • Eye Drops: The first line of defense is to lower eye pressure.

  • Laser Treatment: Helps improve fluid drainage from the eye.

  • Surgery: For severe cases where other treatments do not work.

 

Living With Glaucoma: What Can You Do?

Managing glaucoma is all about keeping pressure under control and protecting your vision. You will need regular checkups, sometimes more frequently, if your doctor feels it is necessary. Make sure to take your prescribed medications consistently. Skipping doses could cause the pressure to rise again. Do not forget to share any concerns with your doctor, be it new symptoms or changes in your vision.

 

Exercise can help lower eye pressure naturally, so stay active. Eating lots of vitamins and minerals will also support your overall eye health.

 

Managing Glaucoma: A Long-Term Commitment

Living with glaucoma requires ongoing care, but it is manageable with the right approach. Keep up with appointments and follow your doctor’s advice. You can continue to live a full life, even with the challenges of glaucoma. Stay proactive and positive. Remember, the earlier you catch it, the better the results.

 

For more on glaucoma, visit Pascarella Eye Care & Contact Lenses at our office in Newtown, Pennsylvania. Call (267) 487-9900 to book an appointment today.

 

https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-is-glaucoma

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/glaucoma/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20372846