Early detection of glaucoma is crucial.
Early detection of glaucoma is crucial.
The Importance of Regular Eye Exams for Glaucoma Detection and Treatment
It’s a common misconception that if you don’t need glasses, you don’t need to see an eye doctor. However, regular eye exams are crucial for everyone, especially those over the age of 50. If left undetected, the most common type of glaucoma, known as open-angle glaucoma, can lead to irreversible vision loss. With treatment and proper care, the symptoms can be controlled, and vision can be preserved.
Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness worldwide, affecting approximately 3 million Americans according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Alarmingly, half of those with open-angle glaucoma are unaware of their condition until it progresses and causes noticeable symptoms. This highlights the importance of proactive health care, particularly when it comes to monitoring eye health.
Open-angle glaucoma occurs when the tiny canals responsible for draining away eye fluid become clogged, leading to increased eye pressure. This pressure can damage the optic nerve, resulting in vision loss. Although the exact cause and mechanism of open-angle glaucoma are currently unknown, its progression can be managed through treatment options.
While heredity and age can contribute to glaucoma, it can develop even in individuals with perfect vision. Dr. Tara O’Rourke, an optometrist at Penn State Health Eye Center, advises that individuals over the age of 50 should undergo annual glaucoma testing, regardless of their vision status. Those with a family history of glaucoma should consider testing at an earlier age.
The challenge with glaucoma is that it often presents no symptoms in its early stages. Instead, it silently causes slow progressive peripheral vision loss that cannot be reversed. By the time symptoms such as pain, cloudy vision, and light sensitivity arise, the condition has already advanced, making early detection and treatment crucial.
- Ticks spreading ‘wasting disease’ among Wisconsin deer.
- Could Gut Bacteria Impact Artery Blockage?
- Washington State’s new payroll tax funds long-term care and c...
To diagnose glaucoma, eye doctors perform tests to measure eye pressure. The normal range for eye pressure is between 10 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) and 21 mm Hg. Any measurement above 21 indicates the need for further testing. One common diagnostic method is the puff test, wherein a machine blows a puff of air into the eye to assess eye pressure.
Dr. O’Rourke prefers using a device called a Goldmann applanation tonometer for more accurate readings. After numbing the eye with drops, the tonometer gently taps or rests on the front surface of the eye to obtain an accurate pressure reading.
Once diagnosed, glaucoma requires ongoing treatment to control eye pressure and minimize further vision loss. Eyedrops are a common treatment method and may be prescribed for the long term. Different types of eyedrops can either decrease fluid production or improve fluid outflow to alleviate pressure.
In addition to eyedrops, oral medications can help lower intraocular pressure (IOP). Laser therapy is another option to enhance fluid outflow through the eye’s drainage system, although medication may still be necessary to maintain optimal eye pressure.
For some patients, surgical interventions are necessary, such as stents that help clear fluid in the eye. In certain cases, these procedures may coincide with cataract surgery.
Regular eye exams play a vital role in the early detection and ongoing management of glaucoma. By monitoring eye health through annual check-ups, individuals can ensure that any changes in eye pressure or other signs of glaucoma are promptly addressed, reducing the risk of further vision loss.
Remember, glaucoma may silently impact anyone, regardless of their vision status. If you are over 50 or have a family history of glaucoma, don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Schedule a yearly eye exam to maintain the health of your eyes and preserve your vision.
Sources:
SLIDESHOW
Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis) Symptoms, Causes, Treatments See Slideshow
