Glaucoma
Avon Vision Associates 860-677-6444
New Hartford Eye Associates 860-379-7183
The experienced optometrists at Avon Vision Associates and New Hartford Eye Associates specialize in the diagnosis and management of glaucoma, a serious eye disease that can lead to blindness if left untreated. Understanding the risk factors, testing methods, and treatment options for glaucoma is crucial for maintaining good vision.
What is glaucoma?
Glaucoma refers to a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, which is essential for clear vision. It is often associated with high pressure within the eye, but this is not always the case. There are two main types of glaucoma: open-angle and closed-angle, with the former being more common and developing slowly over time, while the latter is less common but more severe and can cause sudden symptoms.
What are the symptoms of glaucoma?
Symptoms of glaucoma can be hard to detect in the early stages as they may not be present. Glaucoma is often called the “sneak thief of sight” for this reason.
As the disease progresses, you may notice a gradual loss of peripheral vision, halos around lights, blurred vision, eye pain, nausea, or vomiting. It is essential to seek medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms.
Am I at risk for glaucoma?
While everyone is at risk for glaucoma, there are certain groups of people who have a higher risk of developing glaucoma.
Risk factors include age, family history, ethnicity, previous eye injuries or surgeries, medical conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure, certain medications, and being nearsighted. It is essential to discuss your risk factors with your eye doctor and have regular eye exams to ensure early detection of glaucoma and other eye conditions and prevent vision loss.
Diagnosing glaucoma
Diagnosis of glaucoma will require a variety of diagnostic tests. In addition to the testing performed during a comprehensive eye exam, our eye doctors may utilize advanced diagnostic technology called the FMAT1– Tonography, Serial tonometry, Ophthalmodynamometry to measure the pressure inside the eye and the arterial blood pressure in the retina to diagnose glaucoma.
Treatment for glaucoma
Treatment of glaucoma may include medications, laser surgery, or traditional surgery to lower pressure within the eye and prevent further damage to the optic nerve. Avon Vision Associates and New Hartford Eye Associates work closely with patients to create personalized treatment plans that are tailored to their unique needs. If you have any questions or concerns about glaucoma, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.