What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness in people over the age of 40. Vision loss occurs when the optic nerve is damaged by the pressure inside the eye. Glaucoma is an extremely slow and progressive disease. Currently there are no known cures for glaucoma and the optic nerve damage that is present at your initial diagnosis can not be repaired however studies have shown that the damage can be stabilized, slowed or even stopped with the proper treatment.

What causes Glaucoma?

Glaucoma occurs when the outflow of the fluid that circulates through eye gets backed up due to a blockage of the drainage channel. Pressure then builds within the eye and this pressure damages the optic nerve. causing vision loss.

What are the beginning signs of Glaucoma?

Unfortunately there are no signs that indicate to you that glaucoma may be developing. This is why it is known as the silent thief of sight.

How do I find out if I have Glaucoma?

Maintaining your regularly scheduled eye exams and having the proper testing done will allow our doctors to monitor your vision and detect the onset of glaucoma.

What are my options?

Once glaucoma has been diagnosed there are several options you have for treatment. Glaucoma treatments options include eyedrops, laser or surgery. These options will very depending on the type of glaucoma you have and the severity of the glaucoma.

If you would like to view more in depth information about glaucoma and glaucoma treatments and surgery click on the Brochure link below. This brochure was written by the Doctors of Eye Specialists of Mid Florida to help you with any questions you may have about glaucoma.

View Brochure Here