Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a serious eye disease, but it can be managed. That’s why at the office of Paul Thompson, OD we encourage regular, comprehensive eye exams for early detection.

What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is an eye disease that occurs when too much fluid builds up in the eye. This abundance of fluid results in too much pressure, which can damage the optic nerve and result in vision loss and blindness if left undetected and untreated. There are two main types of glaucoma. Each involves the buildup of fluid due to different structural imperfections of the eye, which impact the way fluid is drained.

Although there is no cure for glaucoma, both types can be managed with the right treatment. While older age, family history, and certain conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure are risk factors for glaucoma, the exact causes are not fully known.

What is known is that with early detection, glaucoma can be successfully managed and controlled.

Early Detection is Key

Because there are virtually no symptoms early in its onset, the best way to detect glaucoma is with regular, thorough eye exams. The exam includes a series of vision tests and a comprehensive eye examination to check the health of your optic nerve and measure your eye pressure.

You can’t prevent glaucoma, but you can prevent the complications! The best way to do this is to schedule an exam every year to screen for the disease. Based on the exam, we can determine if you have glaucoma and will refer you to an ophthalmologist to discuss treatment options.

As long as you continue to monitor the condition and follow your treatment plan, you can control the condition and slow or stop any damage to the optic nerve.

At the office of Paul Thompson, OD, we’re dedicated to providing the highest quality of skilled and compassionate care. For more information on our office and the many services that we provide, give us a call today.

By Paul Thompson, OD

August 13, 2019