Early Detection and Care Improves the Prognosis of Glaucoma
- Posted on: May 15 2016
Each year, glaucoma silently affects millions, affecting vision by damaging the optic nerve. There are several forms of glaucoma, each potentially serious due to the fact that no pain associates other symptoms. In fact, other than vision impairment, you may have no indication that you have glaucoma. And by the time your vision is affected, your optic nerve has likely suffered irreparable damage.
The concern that eye doctors have with glaucoma is that the affected patient is at risk of losing his or her vision permanently. Because of the serious nature of glaucoma, and its subtle progression, routine eye exams are an important aspect of general health and wellness. Eye exams should be obtained on a yearly basis. During this visit, your eye doctor will assess the pressure in your eye, called intraocular pressure. If you have a family history of this eye condition or are diabetic, your eye doctor will want to see you more frequently. When glaucoma is caught early, vision may be preserved with prompt treatment.
When to See the Eye Doctor
There are a few symptoms that may indicate the onset of glaucoma:
- Persistent eye redness
- Pain in the eye or behind the eye
- The eyeball looks hazy
- Halos appear around light sources
- Tunnel vision occurs, this is a loss of peripheral vision
If glaucoma is suspected, Dr. Giyaur may use special imaging to observe and record the optic nerve. Specific diagnostic testing will also be performed. Understandably, it can feel uncomfortable to think of testing being performed on your eyes. Rest assured we are committed to your comfort. Using special medicated eye drops, we can numb your eyes to make your testing and treatment completely comfortable.
Treating Glaucoma
While glaucoma is a concerning eye condition, there are ways to treat the disease to preserve vision. Dr. Giyaur develops a clinical protocol for each patient based on the severity of glaucoma and on his or her unique situation. Early treatment may include the use of prescription eye drops, which will decrease intraocular pressure. Laser therapy may also be necessary if vision impairment is a concern.
Avoid the complications that can occur with glaucoma. Schedule an eye exam with New York eye doctor Julia Giyaur, MD.
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Posted in: Glaucoma
