Glaucoma Treatment Options

Glaucoma refers to a group of diseases that affect the optic nerve causing a loss of vision. According to the Glaucoma Research Foundation, it is estimated that about half of the people affected by glaucoma are not aware of it.

This is likely due to the fact that early glaucoma can show almost no symptoms. Everyone is at risk of developing glaucoma and as a result you should have regular eye exams including eye dilation. The Glaucoma Research Foundation recommends that you have an eye exam:

• Every two to four years if you are under 40 years old
• Every one to three years if you are 40-54 years old
• Every one to two years if you are 55-64 years old
• Every six to 12 months if you are over 65 years old

There are also certain groups that are at higher risk for developing glaucoma; all of these groups should obtain an eye exam every one to two years:

• African-Americans
• People over 60 years of age
• People with a history of glaucoma in their family
• Older Hispanics
• Asians
• Steroid users
• People who have undergone trauma to the eye
• People with high myopia (nearsightedness)
• People affected by diabetes
• People with hypertension
• People with a thin central cornea

Glaucoma is often associated with a high intraocular pressure (IOP) and thin corneal layers. Although these are not necessarily believed to be the sole causes of glaucoma.

If you are diagnosed with glaucoma, there are many treatment options available to reduce or eliminate further vision loss.

Please visit our directory of eye doctors to find a glaucoma surgeon in your area that can answer your glaucoma questions.