Glaucoma is the leading
cause of blindness among adults in the United States.
Glaucoma causes damage to the optic nerve. There
are two basic types of glaucoma: Open Angle and Angle
Closure. Both types may be related to a positive
family history of the disease.
Symptoms
Open Angle Glaucoma
Often called chronic glaucoma, this is the most common
of the two types-affecting around 90% of those
who suffer from glaucoma. This type of glaucoma
can develop gradually and go unnoticed for years,
slowly causing blindness. Since there is usually
no pain experienced and no other apparent symptoms,
one is commonly unaware of this serious eye disorder.
The only way open angle glaucoma can be detected
is by the eye examination performed in the clinic.
At Sneed Eye Associates, eye pressure tests, corneal
thickness tests, nerve fiber analysis, and visual
fields are evaluated with the most advanced technology
available. The new analysis of the nerve fiber
layer appears to be the most accurate way to detect
early glaucoma damage.
Acute Angle Closure Glaucoma
This form affects less than 10% of glaucoma sufferers.
It occurs mainly in farsighted people, and inheritance
is a factor. In some cases, warning attacks may
occur. Vision can become blurred and halos can
be seen around lights. Sometimes, pain and redness
develops. In more severe cases, vomiting is also
associated with the attack. If these symptoms occur,
call your eye doctor immediately. Vision can be
preserved in most cases by prompt medical and laser
treatment.
Treatment
In open angle glaucoma, medicated drops are most
commonly used for treatment. Oral medication may
be added to the drops. If these are not effective,
there are several surgical treatments employed.
Outpatient Surgery Center has the latest laser
technology for glaucoma treatment. When the disease
is detected and treated at an early stage, chances
are excellent that progressive visual loss can
be averted.
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