How is Glaucoma Diagnosed and Treated?

Glaucoma is an eye condition linked to optic nerve damage, as a healthy optic nerve is crucial for clear vision. Glaucoma is typically genetic, develops with age, and progresses due to the buildup of pressure in the eye (intraocular pressure).

It is helpful to know how to diagnose and treat glaucoma. The condition may lead to permanent vision loss if not treated as it is the leading cause of blindness for patients over 60 and cannot be reversed.

What Causes Glaucoma?

Glaucoma occurs when the liquid inside the eye (aqueous humor) builds up due to blockage or overproduction. The condition often affects both eyes but could be worse in one. The causes include chemical or blunt force injuries, blocked blood vessels, inflammatory conditions, and severe eye infections. In rare cases, eye surgery to treat another disease may lead to glaucoma.

Symptoms of Glaucoma

Symptoms of glaucoma will depend on the type. In some cases, open-angle glaucoma symptoms do not appear until the late stages of the disease. Angle-closure glaucoma has more obvious symptoms, and they come on fast. They include:
 

• Vision loss

• Seeing halos around the lights

• Eye pain

• Eye redness

• Hazy-looking eyes

• Stomachache or vomiting

How is Glaucoma Diagnosed?

Glaucoma diagnosis involves quick and painless examinations that test vision and dilate the pupils to examine the inner eyes. The doctor will inspect the optic nerve to look for signs of glaucoma. 

Taking photographs can help monitor any changes. A tonometry test helps check eye pressure, and a visual field test can help detect lost peripheral vision. If the doctor suspects the patient may have glaucoma, he/she may order optic nerve imaging tests.

How is Glaucoma Treated?

The doctor may recommend several treatments for glaucoma based on the type and stage of the disease. They include:
 

• Prescription eye drops

• Oral medications: such as beta-blockers and a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor

• Laser surgery: such as iridotomy, trabeculoplasty, and cyclophotocoagulation

• Microsurgery or trabeculectomy: to drain the fluid, easing eye pressure

• Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS)

Types of Glaucoma

There are two main types of glaucoma and the type the patient has will determine the prescribed treatment. They are open-angle glaucoma, which is the most common type, and angle-closure glaucoma. Other less common types are secondary glaucoma, pigmentary glaucoma, and normal-tension glaucoma.

It is important to visit an eye doctor if you experience any symptoms or notice changes in your vision. Regular dilating eye exams can help detect early signs of glaucoma and are crucial for individuals with high risk. 

It is helpful to find out your family’s eye health history. Good lifestyle habits such as regular exercise, eating a healthy diet, and wearing protective eyewear may help prevent glaucoma. 

For more on the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma, visit Apple Eyecare at our Fort Wayne, Indiana office. Call (260) 432-5502 to schedule an appointment today.