What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a disease of the optic nerve in which the nerve damage leads to progressive, irreversible vision loss. The two most common types of glaucoma are chronic open angle glaucoma and closed angle glaucoma. It is the second leading cause of preventable blindness in the country, even though there are effective treatments available. Glaucoma generally affects both eyes, although one may have more severe signs and symptoms than the other.

Most people have no early warning signs and no symptoms. However, glaucoma can be diagnosed at an annual eye exam and treated so that it does not progress.

Here are some things that raise your risk of developing glaucoma:

• Advanced age – People over the age of 60 are at higher risk.
• Gender – Females are three times more likely to develop glaucoma as males.
• Myopia – People with myopia, also called nearsightedness, have a higher risk of glaucoma.
• Some illnesses – People with diabetes or hypothyroidism have a higher chance of developing glaucoma.
• Eye injuries or conditions – Some eye injuries, especially severe ones, are linked to a higher glaucoma risk. Retinal detachment, eye inflammation and eye tumors can also cause glaucoma.
• Corticosteroid use – Patients on long-term corticosteroids have an elevated risk of developing several different conditions, including glaucoma. The risk is even greater with eyedrops containing corticosteroids.

Treating glaucoma involves improving the flow of fluid inside the eye, reducing its production, and sometimes both. Damage caused by glaucoma is irreversible; glaucoma cannot be cured but it can be managed. Regular eye exams and proper treatment can slow the progression of glaucoma and prevent further loss of sight.

We specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma. If you have concerns about your vision, call to schedule a diagnostic eye exam, today: In Reading (781) 942-9876; In Melrose (781) 662-2216.

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