What Is Glaucoma?

The world’s second leading cause of blindness is glaucoma, and despite being common, nearly 50% of Americans with glaucoma do not know they have the condition. The lack of awareness is due to glaucoma having few early symptoms, which makes having a regular eye exam that includes a glaucoma screening essential. Although there is currently no cure for glaucoma, we have treatments to stop or slow its progress, making it critical for people to be diagnosed and begin treatment as early as possible. If you live in or near Lebanon, MO, and are looking for an optometrist near you, consider working with our team at Butler Eye Care.

Glaucoma and the Optic Nerve

Glaucoma results from damage to the optic nerve. The optic nerve allows us to see by sending signals from the eye to the brain, but damage to this nerve can lead to vision loss or blindness. This damage primarily results from prolonged and excessive pressure inside the eye. The good news is that screening for signs of glaucoma is a standard part of the eye exams performed by your optometrist. Depending on your test results, your optometrist may recommend a more advanced glaucoma exam to either confirm or rule out glaucoma and assess any damage that may have occurred.

Signs and Symptoms of Glaucoma 

Glaucoma has two primary forms. Primary open-angle glaucoma is the most common form, with cloudy vision and difficulty seeing in limited light being early symptoms. As the condition progresses, people may experience peripheral vision loss and may also suffer damage to their central or straight-ahead vision. The second form, angle-closure glaucoma, comes on suddenly and requires emergency treatment. Symptoms of this condition include eye pain, halos around lights, and dilated pupils.

Glaucoma Treatments

Your eye doctor will recommend treatment based on the type of glaucoma and its severity. Laser surgery that reduces the pressure inside the eyes is a standard treatment for open-angle glaucoma. This procedure is generally the first treatment option, followed by prescription eye drops. Multiple surgical interventions are also available, each aimed at reducing pressure inside the eye by creating an opening to allow excess fluid to drain.

Treating Glaucoma with Butler Eye Care

If you need vision care and live in or near Lebanon, MO, and want an eye doctor near you, consider working with our team at Butler Eye Care for your eye care needs. Call our office at (417) 991-3200 or request an appointment online.