Facts about Glaucoma
Although glaucoma cannot be cured, it can be controlled when detected and treated at an early stage. Whether you are interested in facts about the disease or believe you may have glaucoma, Elmquist Eye Group can help.
Our talented team can address your glaucoma concerns and any other problems you may be having with your eyes. Our patients find it comforting to have compassionate, concerned physicians who take a genuine interest in their eye health and provide valuable advice.
What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a disease that damages the optic nerve, located at the back of your eye, which carries visual information to your brain for processing. If left untreated, it is one of the world’s leading causes of irreversible blindness.
Glaucoma Facts
- Glaucoma is not curable, and lost vision cannot be restored. Early detection and treatment can protect your vision.
- Nearly half of the estimated 4 million Americans who have glaucoma do not know they have the disease.
- Open-angle glaucoma, the most common form of the disease, affects about 90% of patients aged 40 and older. It typically has no symptoms, pain or warning signs.
- Closed-angle glaucoma, the rarer form of the disease, is a medical emergency. If not treated immediately, blindness can quickly result.
- Although glaucoma has many causes, elevated eye pressure is a factor in most cases. Pressure builds up in the eye due to problems with drainage of aqueous humor, a fluid produced in the eye.
- Anyone can get glaucoma, but African Americans aged 40 and older, Hispanics aged 60 and older, and individuals who have family members with glaucoma are at a higher risk.
- It is possible for babies and children to get a rare form of early onset glaucoma.
How Is Glaucoma Detected?
Getting a comprehensive dilated eye exam at Elmquist Eye Group is the best way to detect glaucoma before it damages your vision. A glaucoma screening that checks only the pressure of the eye is not sufficient.
How is Glaucoma Treated?
Each person’s eyes are unique, and the treatment for glaucoma will depend upon the nature and severity of the disease. Eye drops, oral medications, laser surgery, and conventional surgeries can be used to prevent damage to the optic nerve or to slow its progress. Treatment typically begins with medication and, if necessary, laser surgery. Traditional surgery is usually for patients whose eye pressure cannot be controlled with medication or laser surgery.
The glaucoma specialists at Elmquist Eye Group in Cape Coral and Fort Myers can detect and treat all forms of glaucoma. If you have questions about our glaucoma facts, want to protect your eyes from the possibility of getting glaucoma, or need treatment for the disease, schedule an appointment with us today by calling (239) 936-2020.