How Glaucoma Treatment Can Save Your Vision

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of vision loss worldwide, often developing silently and without symptoms until significant damage has already occurred. While it cannot be cured, early detection and effective treatment can slow or stop its progression, helping to preserve your vision for years to come.

What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, which is essential for clear vision. This damage is often caused by increased pressure in the eye (intraocular pressure or IOP), though some forms of glaucoma can occur with normal eye pressure. If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to irreversible vision loss and even blindness.

There are different types of glaucoma, with the most common being:

•          Open-angle glaucoma: The most prevalent type, which develops gradually and often goes unnoticed until vision loss occurs.

•          Angle-closure glaucoma: A more sudden and severe form that requires immediate medical attention.

•          Normal-tension glaucoma: Occurs despite normal eye pressure, likely due to poor blood flow to the optic nerve.

Are You at Risk for Glaucoma?

While glaucoma can affect anyone, some individuals are at higher risk, including:

•          People over the age of 60

•          Those with a family history of glaucoma

•          African American, Hispanic, and Asian individuals, who may be more genetically predisposed

•          Individuals with high intraocular pressure

•          People with conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or severe nearsightedness

•          Those who have suffered previous eye injuries

Because glaucoma often progresses without noticeable symptoms, routine eye exams are essential, especially for those at higher risk.

Why Regular Eye Exams Are Crucial for Early Detection

Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” because it develops gradually, and most people do not experience symptoms in the early stages. Once vision loss occurs, it cannot be reversed. However, regular comprehensive eye exams can detect glaucoma before significant damage occurs.

During an eye exam, our optometrist will:

•          Measure intraocular pressure

•          Examine the optic nerve for signs of damage

•          Assess peripheral vision, which is often affected first by glaucoma

•          Conduct imaging tests to monitor changes in the eye

Detecting glaucoma early allows for prompt treatment to prevent further vision loss.

Treatments That Can Save Your Vision

Although glaucoma cannot be cured, various treatment options are available to help manage the condition and protect your eyesight:

•          Prescription Eye Drops: The most common initial treatment, eye drops help reduce intraocular pressure by decreasing fluid production or improving drainage.

•          Oral Medications: Sometimes prescribed alongside eye drops to enhance pressure reduction.

•          Laser Therapy: Procedures such as selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) or laser peripheral iridotomy (LPI) can help improve fluid drainage.

•          Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS): These newer surgical techniques provide a safer and less invasive way to manage eye pressure.

•          Traditional Surgery: In more advanced cases, procedures like trabeculectomy or drainage implants may be required to reduce pressure effectively.

Your optometrist will determine the best treatment approach based on the severity of your condition.

Protect Your Vision with Timely Glaucoma Treatment

Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that can lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated. However, with regular eye exams and early intervention, you can slow or even halt its progression.

If you are at risk for glaucoma or noticing changes in your vision, contact Miramar Eye Center to schedule your eye exam and take control of your eye health. Visit our office in Miramar, Florida, call (954) 431-2020, or text (954) 399-3240 today.