Glaucoma
Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness in the world today. It is estimated that over 300,000 Australian have the disease, many of whom are unaware.
Glaucoma is progressive damage to the optic nerve, the nerve which takes light signals from the eye to the brain. The damage comes about from a combination of factors, resulting in a mismatch between the pressure in the eye and the strength of the optic nerve over time.
Glaucoma can cause gradual vision loss, but if detected early enough and treated well enough, the process can be arrested.
Diagnosis of Glaucoma
Investigation for glaucoma starts with a simple eye test, painless measuring of eye pressure, and careful examination of the eye.
If there is concern, investigations are undertaken such as Nerve Scans, Visual Field Testing, and Water Drinking Tests.
If a diagnosis is made, treatment is started, and then monitoring occurs over time. This is a lifelong disease.
Treatment for Glaucoma
Treatment consists of drops, laser and occasionally surgery.
Drops are usually instilled on a daily basis and continue for life.
Laser is performed to either open the drainage angle of the eye, or to stimulate the drains to work more effectively.
The advantage of laser is generally no or less drop treatment.
Surgery is reserved for the most severe cases where drops and laser are not controlling the disease.
Glaucoma at Hunter Cataract & Eye Centre
Treated well, Glaucoma can have only minimal impact on ones life, but untreated or treated poorly, it can result in severe visual dysfunction.
The best thing you can do is get an eye test every two years, especially once above 40 years of age.
Frequently Asked Questions
Glaucoma is a degenerative disease of the Optic Nerve. Over time the optic nerve dies off, taking vision with it. The cause is unknown but it is treatable. Progression of the disease can be halted, just ask us how.
Glaucoma, like all diseases, is forever; so in general the answer is yes. There are options however such as laser surgery, cataract extraction and glaucoma drainage operations. These options are tailored to your specific case but may enable withdrawal of some or all medications. Contact us if you wish to be free of medication.
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