We offer the latest technology to help diagnose, monitor, and treat glaucoma. Our advanced testing includes easy-to-use VR technology to check peripheral vision, ERG testing to measure stress on the optic nerve, and OCT scans to measure the thickness of the retinal and optic nerve fibers, which can become thinner with higher eye pressure. We also screen for other types of glaucoma, including low-tension glaucoma. Patients with a family history of glaucoma, migraines, sleep apnea, loss of peripheral vision, or low blood pressure are encouraged to have yearly eye exams with glaucoma screening. Treatment can be as simple as using eye drops at night, or may involve more advanced medical or surgical options depending on the severity.
Glaucoma describes eye disorders that involve damage to the optic nerve, which sends visual signals from your eye to your brain. This loss of nerve tissue can result in loss of vision.
Primary open-angle glaucoma is one of the most common disorders. It results from an increased pressure inside the eye, which can cause damage to the optic nerve. A damaged nerve can lead to vision loss or even blindness. This pressure can build slowly and be difficult to detect in everyday life. It may start by affecting only your peripheral vision.
Pressure is not the only indicator of glaucoma, as high pressure does not always lead to glaucoma and glaucoma can develop in spite of normal eye pressure. Anyone can develop glaucoma, although it is most common in people over 40.
Acute angle closure glaucoma is not as common, but can develop much more quickly. If you are experiencing intense eye pain, redness in your eye, blurred vision, or nausea, you may need immediate medical attention. This form of glaucoma is an emergency and needs to be treated right away.
There is no way to completely prevent glaucoma, but early diagnosis and treatment can help control the condition and limit its effects. Often times medication or surgery can help reduce the damage, but glaucoma cannot be reversed. For this reason, at Auburn Westboro Eye Associates we regularly test for glaucoma and recommend frequent eye exams. Factors such as age, race, family history, and previous medical conditions can all contribute to developing glaucoma.
At Auburn Westboro Eye Associates we use tonometry to measure the pressure inside your eye and pachymetry to measure corneal thickness. We also examine your field of vision and the retina of your eye.
Treatment for glaucoma may start with prescription eye drops that help manage the pressure in your eyes. Other treatments may include medication, surgery, or implants. Because treatment is ongoing, it is important that your optometrist detect any changes in your eye health. Regular eye exams are essential to managing glaucoma, which is a lifelong issue.
If you have any questions, contact us at (508) 832-9392 – Auburn or (508) 366-7461 – Westboro.