Glaucoma Awareness Month
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that cause damage to the optic nerve located in the back of the eye. The optic nerve is connected to the brain and carries visual information to the brain in order for us to see. Glaucoma can lead to irreversible vision loss if undetected and left untreated.
Glaucoma is referred to as the “silent thief of sight” because there are no symptoms in early stages of the disease and vision loss occurs slowly over time. There are different types of glaucoma (open-angle, narrow-angle, pigmentary, low-tension, etc) and the best way to detect and prevent vision loss associated with the disease is with an annual comprehensive eye exam.
Risk factors include:
family history of glaucoma
steroid use
high myopia
history of ocular injury
age (typically over 60)
African descent and over the age of 40
diabetes
There is no cure for glaucoma but several treatments are available to halt the progression of vision loss. We treat glaucoma by lowering eye pressure. In early and moderate cases, this is achieved via drops, lasers and implantable drug delivery systems.
Regular exercise and a healthy diet consisting of daily antioxidant intake are crucial for overall ocular health.
Early detection and treatment are necessary to prevent irreversible vision loss and blindness from glaucoma.
At Sorella Optique and Eyecare, Dr. Tinari assesses every patient for glaucoma. Our eye exams include:
thorough evaluation of the optic nerves
slit lamp examination to assess angle depth, pigment of the corneal endothelium and iris transillumination
intraocular pressure measurement with iCare rebound tonometry or Goldmann applanation tonometry
corneal pachymetry (corneal thickness measurement)
OCT of the optic nerve (RNFL and GCC thickness)
disc photos
anterior segment OCT
virtual reality visual field perimetry
Have you had your annual comprehensive eye exam? Vision loss can significantly impact your daily activities and lead to a lower quality of life. If you haven’t had an eye exam within the past 1-2 years, please schedule one soon. Regular visits will help preserve your precious sight.