Glaucoma is the world’s second leading cause of blindness. Despite this, nearly half of those in the United States who have glaucoma are unaware of their condition because it often presents with few early symptoms. While glaucoma currently has no cure, there are treatments available to stop or slow its progression. Since glaucoma is frequently first diagnosed during a routine eye exam, scheduling regular eye exams with an optometrist is essential for early detection and treatment. If you live in the St. James area and are looking for an eye care specialist, consider working with our team at Olson Optical.
What Is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma results from increased pressure inside the eye, which damages the optic nerve that transmits signals from the eye to the brain. Damage to this nerve can lead to vision loss or blindness. Glaucoma has two primary forms with differing symptoms:
- Primary open-angle glaucoma: This more common form develops slowly. Early symptoms include clouded vision and difficulty seeing in dim light. Later symptoms include peripheral vision loss and reduced straight-ahead vision. This form progresses gradually and is treatable.
- Angle-closure glaucoma: This form has more acute symptoms, including eye pain, headaches, dilated pupils, and halos around lights. It has a sudden onset and requires emergency treatment.
Glaucoma Surgery
The choice of treatment for glaucoma depends on its type and severity. Laser surgery is the standard treatment for open-angle glaucoma, but medications are also an option. Three common surgical procedures to address glaucoma aim to reduce intraocular pressure by creating or enlarging an opening in the eye to facilitate the drainage of excess fluid:
- Trabeculectomy: This surgery treats open-angle glaucoma by creating a hole in the cornea to allow fluid to drain from inside the eye.
- Glaucoma implant surgery: Used for various forms of glaucoma, this procedure involves implanting a stent in the white of the eye to enable internal fluid drainage.
- Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS): A newer technique, MIGS increases the size of the natural drainage opening of the eye, making it less invasive than traditional methods.
Contact an Eye Doctor Near You
If you reside in or near St. James, MN, and need glasses or other vision care services, consider working with our team at Olson Optical. We also provide pre- and post-surgical care for glaucoma patients. Call us today at (507) 375-2020 or book an appointment online to address your eye health needs.
