Glaucoma is an eye condition that causes damage to the optic nerve, which can slowly decrease peripheral vision over time if goes uncontrolled. If you’ve had an eye exam with us, you’ve probably heard Dr. Punzal mention the term once or twice. If you have a larger optic nerve - which more than likely you were born with - it gives you a higher chance of being a suspect for glaucoma, meaning there is a greater likelihood of possibly developing glaucoma in the future. Since peripheral vision loss caused by glaucoma cannot be recovered, it’s important for patients to be aware of this so we can take all necessary precautions to prevent the condition, or if the condition has already developed we can implement treatment to reduce the progression.
There are many different forms of glaucoma. Listed below are some of the more common ones.
The most common form of glaucoma. The angle refers to the space between the iris and cornea, which can range from open to narrow. Open-angle glaucoma develops slowly over time and symptoms aren’t usually noticed right away.
A common form of glaucoma that occurs when the angle is narrow. Angle-closure glaucoma develops quickly, and symptoms are usually very noticeable.
One of the most common characteristics for both open-angle and angle-closure glaucoma is an increase in intraocular pressure (IOP). Dr. Punzal measures the IOP whenever you get a dilated eye exam with us. If the pressure is too high, a common treatment is to prescribe eye drops which can help to lower the IOP. If the IOP goes uncontrolled, even with the use of eye drops, a consultation with a glaucoma specialist is recommended. The specialist will evaluate the situation where surgery would be considered. The purpose of the surgery is to improve drainage of the eye, which will lower and stabilize the IOP and slow the progression of peripheral vision loss.
Another common form of glaucoma that occurs when the optic nerve is damaged, yet the IOP is within the lower range.
The best way to prevent glaucoma is to get a dilated eye exam at least once a year or more frequently as determined by your eye care provider. If your eye doctor detects an increase in the eye pressure, use the prescribed eye drops regularly to lower and stabilize the pressure. Be aware of your family’s eye health history, as glaucoma tends to run in families and if your eye doctor is aware of this, they can begin to monitor it in the early stages. Wear eye protection often, especially when doing activities that could potentially harm your eyes (sports, welding, etc.)
Come and SEE us for your next dilated eye exam, and if you have any questions about glaucoma, please don’t hesitate to ask!
