Glaucoma is currently the world’s second leading cause of blindness. In the United States alone, approximately three million individuals are affected with this condition. Downtown Eyes believes that having a solid background of this disease can halt its increasing prevalence. Let us discuss essential things you need to know about glaucoma.
A healthy level of eye fluids is needed to keep the pressure inside your eyes stable. Ocular fluids ideally empty into a trabecular meshwork, which is found in the angle formed between your iris and cornea. Any changes in the eye fluid draining process may lead to their build-up, resulting in increased intraocular pressure (IOP). Without prompt treatment, this may damage the optic nerve which may lead to vision problems.
According to your expert eye doctor, glaucoma has two major classifications: close or narrow-angle and open or wide-angle. The former develops when something blocks the angle, preventing the smooth flow of fluids into the meshwork. Although it’s a less common form of glaucoma, it’s often associated with a sudden rise in IOP levels. You may experience nausea, headaches, and eye pain when this happens. Blurry eyesight, seeing halos around lights, and vision loss are also common.
Almost 90% of the reported glaucoma cases are classified as primary open or wide-angle. This occurs when there is ineffective fluid emptying, even if there are no obstructions to the angle. This type doesn’t usually show any manifestations until its later stages, which is why the disease is also known as the “silent thief of sight.”
Your reliable eye doctor or optometrist will first perform a comprehensive eye exam to measure your current IOP levels. If the values are above 12-22 mmHg, we’ll create a treatment plan that aims to prevent glaucoma’s progression. We’ll also provide ways to relieve your discomfort and improve your eyesight, maintaining your quality of life.
This may include applying IOP-lowering eye drops. We may also suggest performing a laser correction procedure to remove obstructions, increasing the eye fluid draining rate. We may recommend doing microsurgery as well for more severe cases to create new drainage channels.
For more information about glaucoma, call us at (612) 333-EYES (3937) or complete our form. You may also send us a message to request an appointment. We serve Minneapolis and nearby MN areas.
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