This week, as we observe World Glaucoma Week, Thomas Eye Group is dedicated to raising awareness about this often-misunderstood eye disease. While many have heard of glaucoma, its specifics may remain a mystery. To start the week, we are answering a few of the most pressing questions surrounding it, starting with the biggest fundamental:
Glaucoma is an eye disease in which damage to the optic nerve leads to progressive, irreversible vision loss. Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness. Most people who have glaucoma suffer from either open–angle or closed–angle glaucoma.
Several risk factors are associated with glaucoma, including:
These factors underscore the importance of regular eye examinations, especially for those with a family history or who fall into these high-risk categories, to detect and manage glaucoma at its earliest stages.
Open-angle glaucoma is the most prevalent form, accounting for approximately 90% of all glaucoma cases. In open-angle glaucoma, the inner eye pressure gradually increases due to blockage within the eye’s drainage canals. Fortunately, if detected early, open-angle glaucoma can be effectively managed with medication.
While less common, closed-angle glaucoma presents unique challenges. It occurs when the edges of the iris obstruct the eye’s drainage canals, leading to a sudden and often painful increase in eye pressure. Symptoms may include eye pain, redness, blurred vision, headaches, vomiting, and the appearance of halos around lights. Diagnosis of closed-angle glaucoma may involve observing dilated pupils, lack of response to light, cloudy corneas, and reduced vision.
Neovascular glaucoma poses a significant threat to individuals with poor circulation. This rare form of glaucoma is characterized by the abnormal growth of blood vessels that obstruct fluid drainage within the eye. Unfortunately, neovascular glaucoma often proves untreatable, highlighting the importance of early detection and intervention in high-risk populations.
Toxic glaucoma presents another challenge, characterized by an unexplained rise in intraocular pressure. Despite advances in treatment modalities, toxic glaucoma remains untreatable, emphasizing the need for continued research and innovation in the field of glaucoma management.
Glaucoma-treating eye drops are classified by active ingredients and are commonly found at local pharmacies in both brand–name and generic forms. These include:
If your doctor recommends glaucoma surgery, this usually involves laser treatment to reduce intraocular pressure (IOP). It is essential to note that while surgery can effectively lower eye pressure, it cannot reverse vision loss already incurred. Laser glaucoma surgery is a painless procedure where a doctor directs a laser beam into the eye, producing a bright light like a camera flash. This surgical intervention aids in reducing intraocular pressure (IOP) within the eye. Some patients may need multiple treatments to effectively control their IOP levels. Despite undergoing surgery, patients are still required to use medications to manage and sustain eye pressure, although the surgery might decrease the quantity of medication needed for maintenance. In addition to the variety of laser glaucoma surgeries, we also offer a variety of additional treatments
Thomas Eye Group is proud to offer glaucoma services in Atlanta, Hamilton Mill, Lithonia, Lilburn, Newnan, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Suwanee, and Woodstock.
For more information call us at 678-892-2020.
Schedule your consultation here.
Mark N. Berman, MD, Comprehensive Ophthalmologist & Glaucoma Specialist
Ninita Brown, MD, PHD, Glaucoma Specialist & Cataract Specialist
Dana Wallace, MD, Comprehensive Ophthalmologist & Glaucoma Specialist
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider. Section 1557 – Affordable Care Act (ACA)
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