Optometrists Treat Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a condition that, left untreated, can result in blindness. It is caused by either too much pressure in the eye, a blood flow problem in the back of the eye, or a combination of the two.

Increased pressure destroys nerves in the back of the eye which leads to destruction of your side vision. It is most often found in people over age 35 and usually has no obvious symptoms.

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Unfortunately, you are unable to detect if you have glaucoma because it does not affect the central vision until the very late stages. Early detection is important because once vision is lost, it cannot be restored.

A routine examination at Prairie Vision Center includes an eye pressure test, peripheral vision testing, and a comprehensive internal examination of your eyes is necessary to detect glaucoma. With early detection, eye drops that lower the pressure are very effective in controlling glaucoma. Many surgeries are also becoming available to help control the pressure in glaucoma.

If medication in the form of eye drops is prescribed for you, it is important to take the drops as directed by your optometrist. While the drops don’t change how you see, they are relieving the pressure that is building up in the back of your eye. Regular checkups by the optometrist will help determine if the medication is adequate or if changes need to be made.