Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that leads to abnormally high pressure within the eye. This pressure can cause injury to the optic nerve and lead to permanent damage to vision. Glaucoma is most common amongst adults, aged 60 and older, but it is possible to develop glaucoma at any age. There are often no signs to indicate glaucoma until damage to the eye has already commenced. The only way to detect glaucoma early is to have regular eye exams. Any damage caused by glaucoma cannot be reversed, however, glaucoma can be treated so that its progression can be slowed and it will not continue to cause harm to the eye.
The Types Of Glaucoma And Their Treatments
Types Of Glaucoma. Treatment for glaucoma is dependent on the type of glaucoma.
- Open-angle glaucoma is the most common type of glaucoma, where the drainage angle of fluid is open and yet the fluid does not drain due to a blockage in the trabecular meshwork. This type of glaucoma leads to a gradual buildup in pressure that often does not present any symptoms until the eye becomes damaged by the pressure.
- Normal-tension glaucoma, or low-tension glaucoma, is a form of open-angle glaucoma where the pressure levels of the eyes remain normal yet the optic nerve becomes damaged. The cause of this form of glaucoma is unknown.
- Acute Angle-closure glaucoma, also known as closed-angle glaucoma, is when the eye suddenly develops increased pressure when fluid can’t circulate at the front of the eye. If a person is experiencing acute angle-closure glaucoma it is a medical emergency and they need to go to the eye doctor immediately. This is one of the few forms of glaucoma that will present symptoms, which include:
- Severe headache
- Eye pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Blurred vision
- Halos around lights
- Eye redness
- Congenital glaucoma is a form of glaucoma that is present at birth. Unlike other forms of glaucoma, it typically presents mild symptoms and there are treatments available to restore full vision.
- Secondary glaucoma can develop as a result of eye surgeries, injuries, or medical conditions. The biggest differentiating factor of secondary glaucoma from primary, or the usual, type of glaucoma is that secondary glaucoma has an identifiable cause that has resulted in high eye pressure and optic nerve damage.
- Pigmentary glaucoma is a rare type of glaucoma that is caused by the iris shedding pigments that then blocks fluids from draining
Treatments
- Eyedrops. These can reduce the pressure in the eye by either increasing the outflow of fluid, reducing the production of fluid in the eye, or a combination of both.
- Oral Medications. Often these medications use a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor which regulates the water content of the cell to reduce the excess buildup of fluid in the eyes.
- Surgery. Eye surgery for glaucoma is often used to treat congenital glaucoma but can be used for other forms as well. There are four common types of glaucoma surgeries:
- Laser therapy, also called laser trabeculoplasty, is typically used to treat open-angle glaucoma. A small laser is used to open clogged channels in the trabecular meshwork that allows fluid to properly exit the eye.
- Filtering surgery creates an opening in the sclera, the white of the eye, and a part of the trabecular meshwork is removed so that drainage can take place.
- Drainage tubes can be inserted into the eye to drain excess fluid out and relieve pressure.
- Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) is a newly developed group of surgeries that uses microscopic equipment. Since these surgeries are less invasive than traditional glaucoma surgeries, there are fewer risks of complications, however, the results are not always as effective.
Screen For Glaucoma At Blink Eyewear In Calgary
The best way to protect yourself and your family from lasting vision impairment from glaucoma is to get regular eye exams. While the damage done by glaucoma cannot be reversed, when it is caught early, it can be treated to slow down the progression. To check for this and other eye diseases, book an eye exam with a Blink Eyewear optometrist in Calgary by calling 1-403-516-2292 or filling out the online contact form. With three convenient locations in Crowfoot in NW Calgary, West Springs in SW Calgary, and Creekside in NW Calgary, Blink Eyewear can offer you great optometry services throughout the city. Our team of highly experienced eye doctors will examine your eye health to detect if you are developing any eye diseases, and they will make sure your prescription is up to date.
FAQ
Q: How does an optometrist test for glaucoma?
A: To test for glaucoma, an eye doctor will use a tonometry test in which a small puff of air is directed at the eye. This test is done to determine eye pressure. Another test that may be used is called ophthalmoscopy where a light and magnifier are used to look at the optic nerve. This test may include the use of eye drops to numb the eye.
Q: How can I prevent glaucoma?
A: Although some factors, such as age, will put you at a higher risk, you can decrease your eye pressure levels by eating a balanced diet, exercising, limiting caffeine intake, sleeping with your head elevated, taking small sips of water frequently, and taking any medications prescribed by your optometrist.
Q: Will I go blind from Glaucoma?
A: While it is a possibility, it is not common. Only about 5% of glaucoma patients fully lose their eyesight; if glaucoma is managed you may have some vision impairment but you will not lose your sight.
