Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that can damage the optic nerve, leading to vision loss and blindness. This condition is often linked to increased intraocular pressure. Although there is no cure, controlling ocular hypertension through timely treatment can help preserve vision if detected early during routine eye exams.
Glaucoma / Normal Vision
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Key benefits of screening for glaucoma
- Early detection lowers the risk of vision loss.
- Regular screening may reduce the need for eye drops.
- Timely diagnosis helps slow disease progression and prevent optic nerve damage.
Evaluation:
- Measuring eye pressure
- Inspecting eye’s drainage
- Examining optic nerve damage
- Testing peripheral (side) vision
- Taking an image or computer measurement of the optic nerve
- Measuring the thickness of the cornea
Risk factors:
- Aging
- Family history
- High eye pressure
- Race (African Americans, Hispanics and Asians are a higher risk)
- Long-terms steroid use
- Eye Injury
- Thin corneas
Types of Glaucoma:
Open-Angle Glaucoma
The most common type, caused by slow fluid drainage, leading to gradual pressure buildup.
Narrow-Angle Glaucoma
A medical emergency where the eye’s drainage system is blocked, causing a rapid pressure increase. Symptoms include headache in the dark, night vision issues, colored halos, severe pain, nausea, and vomiting.
Normal-Tension Glaucoma
Occurs despite normal eye pressure. More common in Japanese descendants and those with vascular disorders.
Glaucoma Treatments offered at Precision Eye Care:
Laser Surgery
Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) reduces the need to use eye drops to lower the eye pressure. SLT is an outpatient procedure, and patients can resume normal activities after treatment.
Laser Iridotomy is a laser procedure that entails creating a small hole in the iris, allowing fluid to drain and preventing pressure build up.
Minimally-Invasive Glaucoma Surgery
Minimally-Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) is typically done in combination with cataract surgery. During MIGS, a microscopic device is placed into the eye to lower and control intraocular pressure. Not all the patients with glaucoma are candidates for MIGS.
Prescribed Eye Drops
Taken regularly, as directed by your eye care provider, these eyedrops lower eye pressure. Some causes the eye to make less fluid, others lower pressure by helping fluid drain from the eye.
What are the early symptoms of glaucoma?
In most cases, glaucoma has no early symptoms. Vision loss begins gradually, often affecting peripheral vision first. Because symptoms are not noticeable in early stages, regular eye exams are essential for early detection.
Can glaucoma be prevented or treated in Baltimore, MD?
Glaucoma cannot be prevented or cured, but it can be effectively managed with early diagnosis and treatment.
In Baltimore, MD, patients at Precision Eye Care are treated by experienced specialists like Dr. Romero using advanced options such as medicated eye drops, laser therapy, and minimally invasive glaucoma surgery.
Can glaucoma be cured?
Glaucoma cannot be cured, and any vision loss caused by the disease is irreversible. However, with early detection and proper treatment, the progression can be slowed or controlled to preserve remaining vision.
How often should I get a glaucoma screening if I live near Baltimore, MD?
Most adults should have a comprehensive eye exam every 1 to 2 years, but patients at higher risk may need more frequent screenings. If you live near Baltimore, MD, regular glaucoma testing at Precision Eye Care helps ensure early detection and personalized care from providers like Dr. Romero.
Why is early glaucoma detection important for patients in Baltimore and surrounding areas?
Early detection is critical because glaucoma causes irreversible damage to the optic nerve before symptoms appear. Patients in Baltimore and nearby areas like Towson, Roland Park, Homeland, Gilford, Hampden can benefit from routine eye exams to diagnose glaucoma early and begin treatment before significant vision loss occurs.
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