Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a disease of the optic nerve—the part of the eye that carries the images we see to the brain. The optic nerve is made up of many nerve fibers like an electric cable containing numerous wires. When damage to the optic nerve fibers occurs, blind spots develop. These blind spots usually go undetected until the optic nerve is significantly damaged. If the optic nerve is damaged or destroyed, blindness can result. Early detection is key and regular eye exams are recommended.
Glaucoma is usually controlled with eye drops taken daily which can preserve your vision, but may also produce side effects. Laser treatment may also be an option. When medication and laser treatment are not the answer, surgery may be required. In open-angle glaucoma, the fluid that normally flows in and out of the eye has difficulty leaving through the eye’s sponge-like drainage system. When this occurs, pressure within the eye builds up and may damage the optic nerve and lead to vision loss. Sometimes surgery is required to relieve the pressure. Your doctor will know best how to diagnose and approach treatment.
