Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness, and it affects about three million Americans. If you’re experiencing peripheral vision loss, headaches, or eye pain, visit the Eye Health Center of Troy in Troy, New York. Led by Dr. Pamela Kaw, the practice offers medical and laser treatments for glaucoma and other degenerative eye conditions. Patients travel from around the area to see the doctors at Eye Health Center of Troy. Patients even drive from Albany and Tri City! For a personalized consultation, call the office or book an appointment online today.
Glaucoma Q & A
What is glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a disease that affects the eye’s optic nerve, which is a critical part of maintaining clear and balanced vision. When the optic nerve is compromised, a person can experience gradual vision loss and, eventually, complete blindness. People with glaucoma experience high pressure in the eye, which affects the optic nerve and leads to changes in vision. The most common type of glaucoma in the US is called open angle glaucoma; it’s usually painless and begins with peripheral vision loss.
What are the symptoms of glaucoma?
The symptoms of glaucoma vary depending on how far the disease has progressed. In general, people with glaucoma might experience:
-Gradual or sudden loss of sight in peripheral or central vision
-Patchy or blurry spots
-Eye pain
-Headaches
-Halos when looking at lights
-In the later stages of glaucoma, you might also experience tunnel vision.
Am I at risk for glaucoma?
Glaucoma tends to have a genetic component, so you’re more likely to develop it if you have a family history of the disease. Conditions like nearsightedness, diabetes, heart disease, or estrogen deficiency might also increase your risk for glaucoma. Other risk factors include:
-Age over 60
-Eye injury
-Eye surgery
-Use of corticosteroid medications
How is glaucoma treated?
Dr. Kaw and her team offer a number of interventions to stop the progression of glaucoma and help you establish healthy eyesight. The most common treatment methods for glaucoma include:
-Prescription eye drops: help to decrease eye pressure and improve fluid drainage
-Laser surgery: use of a laser beam to help open channels in the trabecular meshwork, a part of the eye responsible for drainage
-Oral medication: to lower pressure in the eye
What results can I expect from glaucoma treatment?
The unfortunate thing about glaucoma is that once damage has been done to the optic nerve, it’s not possible to regain any lost eyesight. However, early detection and treatment can help prevent future problems and preserve the vision that remains. Certain lifestyle remedies, like avoiding caffeine and eating a balanced diet, can also help you manage glaucoma and reduce pressure in your eyes.
To schedule a consultation about glaucoma treatment, call the Eye Health Center of Troy today or book an appointment online.