What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that cause damage to the optic nerve, which is crucial for transmitting visual information from the eye to the brain. This damage is often associated with elevated pressure in your eye (intraocular pressure), but it can also occur with normal eye pressure.
The Importance of Early Detection
Glaucoma can advance without any warning signs or symptoms. When symptoms become apparent, irreversible vision loss may have already occurred. Regular eye exams allow for early detection, enabling timely intervention to manage intraocular pressure (IOP) and prevent further damage to the optic nerve. Early treatment can slow or halt the progression of the disease, preserving your vision.
The Types of Glaucoma
There are various types of glaucoma, including:
- Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma: The most common form, where the drainage canals in the eye become clogged over time, leading to increased IOP
- Closed-Angle Glaucoma: This occurs when the iris is very close to the drainage angle in the eye, blocking fluid from leaving the eye and causing a sudden increase in IOP
- Normal-Tension Glaucoma: Damage to the optic nerve occurs despite normal eye pressure levels, possibly due to poor blood flow to the optic nerve
- Secondary Glaucoma: This form results from another eye condition, such as inflammation, trauma, or tumors, that increases IOP
Who is at Risk of Developing Glaucoma?
Several factors increase the risk of developing glaucoma, including:
- Age
- Family history
- Ethnicity (African Americans, Hispanics, and Asians)
- Medical conditions (diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease)
- Severe myopia
- Previous eye injuries or surgeries
- Long-term corticosteroid use
Regular Eye Exams in Sardis and Senatobia
Regular eye exams are essential to screen for glaucoma and other eye diseases. Sawyer Scott Eyecare Center aims to detect any signs of glaucoma early, preventing vision loss. Protect your vision and maintain your eye health by booking an appointment with us.