Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions caused by excess pressure within the eye. It progresses over time and can destroy the optic nerve, leading to complete loss of eyesight if not treated in time. Regular eye checks can help a specialist catch and treat glaucoma in its early stages.
Understanding Glaucoma
Glaucoma occurs when there is an abnormality in the flow of a fluid known as aqueous humor. Your body generates this fluid, which nourishes all the internal structures in your eye. The liquid is drained through a channel at the point where your cornea and iris meet. This is how the system is supposed to work. However, due to several factors, the flow of this fluid can either be blocked or may drop below what is needed. Either way, this causes fluid build-up, increasing the pressure on the internal structure of your eyes. The pressure eventually leads to damage to the optic nerve fibers, affecting your vision. As this pressure builds up, you will likely experience blind spots or loss of peripheral vision.
There are different types of glaucoma, and each of them comes with several distinct symptoms. For example, open-angle glaucoma occurs when the fluid's flow is uninterrupted but becomes very slow. This condition often presents no symptoms until significant loss of vision occurs. Another example is angle-closure glaucoma, where the iris blocks the drainage of the fluid, leading to a rapid build-up of pressure in the eye. This results in significant loss of vision, eye pain, and nausea. Congenital glaucoma is due to conditions that are present at birth. Individuals with this type of glaucoma often develop the condition in their childhood.
When Do You Need Glaucoma Treatment?
Since this condition is caused by a build-up of pressure in the eye structures, treatment focuses on relieving the pressure in the internal organs of the eye. Eye drops can help lower the pressure on the eye structures by increasing fluid draining in your eyes. Eye drops are often used for mild glaucoma cases and are the most common intervention for this condition. Eye specialists may also utilize laser therapy, which can improve drainage in the eye. As a last resort, your doctor may recommend surgery, which can help correct most anomalies caused by this condition. A trabeculectomy aims to create new pathways to help drain the fluid.
Why Choose Columbia Eye Associates, PA?
Columbia Eye Associates can help you treat glaucoma effectively. Our clinic relies on top-notch equipment and technology to ensure that you get effective treatment.
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