Awareness About Glaucoma | Glaucoma Treatment

Glaucoma steals eyesight without warning, which is why it is important that you undergo comprehensive eye exams on a regular basis. Detecting this condition at its early stages helps prevent potential loss of vision. In observance of National Glaucoma Awareness Month this January, we help raise awareness about this so-called “thief of sight.”

Causes of Glaucoma

Glaucoma refers to a group of diseases marked by high intraocular pressure (IOP), resulting in damage to the optic nerve. This increase in pressure comes from the inability of the eyes’ trabecular meshwork – the angle between your iris and cornea – to drain fluids. It is most likely due to blockages in this part of the eye.

One of the tests your eye doctor will conduct during your eye exam involves taking your eye pressure. Normal levels fall within the 12 to 22 millimeters of mercury (mmHg) range. Higher than 22 mmHg, and it may indicate compression and damage to the optic nerve. Lack of management may lead to irregularities in your vision and potential loss of sight.

Management of Glaucoma

Managing glaucoma depends on the type you have. The wide-angle type, which is the most common form of glaucoma, occurs when high IOP is detected despite having no obstructions in the draining angle in your eye. Eye drops that help lower IOP levels may be prescribed to you to preserve your eyesight.

The narrow-angle type, meanwhile, develops due to an obstruction in the trabecular meshwork that led to fluid buildup. It is not as common as wide-angle glaucoma, but it often comes before symptoms of blurry vision and seeing halos around lights. When diagnosed with this type of glaucoma, your eye doctor may suggest surgery to remove those blockages.

At Advanced Eyecare Consultants, we provide glaucoma assessment and management as part of our complete eye care services. Apart from this, we also conduct eye exams, offer prescription eyeglasses and contact lenses, and more. Give us a call at (847) 550-3524 or (847) 979-4601. We serve Barrington, IL, and surrounding areas.