Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that can cause damage to the optic nerve and lead to vision loss. It is often referred to as the “silent thief of sight” because it typically has no symptoms until the disease has progressed to an advanced stage.

Symptoms of Glaucoma

In the early stages, glaucoma typically has no symptoms. As the disease progresses, however, symptoms may include:

• Loss of peripheral vision
• Tunnel vision
• Blurred vision
• Halos around lights
• Eye pain or redness

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to schedule an appointment with your eye doctor right away.

Causes of Glaucoma

The exact cause of glaucoma is not fully understood, but it is often associated with increased pressure in the eye, which can damage the optic nerve. Other factors that may contribute to the development of glaucoma include:

• Age
• Family history of glaucoma
• Medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease
• Long-term use of steroid medications
• Previous eye injuries or surgeries

Treatments for Glaucoma

While there is no cure for glaucoma, there are treatments available to slow the progression of the disease and preserve vision. The most common treatments for glaucoma include:

• Eye drops: Prescription eye drops can help lower the pressure inside the eye and reduce the risk of further damage to the optic nerve.
• Laser surgery: Laser trabeculoplasty is a procedure that uses a laser to increase the outflow of fluid in the eye and lower eye pressure.
• Traditional surgery: In some cases, traditional surgery may be necessary to create a new drainage channel to lower eye pressure and protect the optic nerve.
• Hydrus microstent: At Petelin Vision, we offer a revolutionary minimally invasive surgical alternative—the Hydrus microstent. The tiny Hydrus implant is so small, it is not even noticeable. During a relatively quick surgical procedure, Dr. Petelin places the implant into the drainage area of the eye using microscopic incisions and advanced equipment. The stent widens the canal where eye fluids would normally drain. If you also have cataracts, we can place the stent at the same time we perform your cataract surgery.

Getting Regular Eye Exams Can Save Your Vision

Once vision is lost to glaucoma, it can’t be recovered. That’s why it’s important to have regular eye exams to detect and monitor the progression of glaucoma. Early detection and treatment can help slow the progression of the disease and preserve your vision.

At our eye doctor practice, our team of experienced eye doctors is dedicated to providing you with the best possible care for your vision and eye health. If you have any concerns about glaucoma or would like to schedule an eye exam, please contact us today.