Glaucoma
Protect Your Vision from the “Silent Thief of Sight”
Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness, particularly in adults over the age of 60. This group of eye diseases damages the optic nerve–often due to increased pressure inside the eye–and can lead to permanent vision loss if not detected early. Because glaucoma typically develops without noticeable symptoms, routine comprehensive eye exams are essential.
If it has been more than a year since your last eye exam, contact Spectrum Optical today to schedule an appointment and safeguard your vision.
What is glaucoma?
Glaucoma occurs when damage to the optic nerve interferes with the transmission of visual information to the brain. This damage is commonly associated with elevated intraocular pressure caused by improper drainage of fluid within the eye.
Common Types of Glaucoma
- Open–Angle Glaucoma: The most prevalent form. The eye’s drainage system appears normal, but fluid does not exit efficiently, leading to gradual pressure buildup and slow vision loss.
- Angle-Closure Glaucoma: Less common but more urgent. The drainage angle becomes blocked, causing a sudden rise in eye pressure that requires immediate medical attention.
Symptoms
Glaucoma often has no early warning signs, which is why it is known as the “silent thief of sight”. As the disease progresses symptoms may include:
- Gradual loss of peripheral (side) vision
- Tunnel vision in advanced stages
- Halos around lights
- Eye pain or pressure
- Redness of the eye
- Nausea or vomiting (in acute cases)
If you experience sudden eye pain or vision changes, seek immediate medical care.
Who Is at Risk?
While anyone can develop glaucoma, certain factors increase the likelihood:
- Age 40 and older
- Family history of glaucoma
- Diabetes or other systemic health conditions
- Previous eye injury or trauma
- Long-term use of steroid medications
- Elevated eye pressure
Regular eye exams are especially important for individuals with these risk factors.
Diagnosis
Glaucoma is detected during a comprehensive eye examination. Your doctor may perform:
- Tonometry: Measures intraocular pressure
- Dilated Eye Exam: Evaluates the optic nerve
- Visual Field Testing: Detects peripheral vision loss
- Advanced Imaging (OCT): Assesses the health of the optic nerve and retinal nerve fiber layer
Early detection allows for timely treatment and better preservation of vision.
Treatment Options
Although glaucoma cannot be cured, early treatment can effectively slow or prevent vision loss. Treatment is tailored to each patient and may include:
- Prescription Eye Drops: Reduce eye pressure
- Laser Therapy: Improves fluid drainage
- Microsurgical Procedures: Used in more advanced cases
At Spectrum Optical, we partner with you to monitor and manage glaucoma, helping you maintain healthy vision for years to come.
Schedule Your Eye Exam
Protect your sight with proactive care. If you are due for an eye exam or have concerns about glaucoma, our experienced team is here to help.
Call Spectrum Optical today or request an appointment to take the next step in preserving your vision.