Glaucoma

	Frequently Asked Questions
	What is glaucoma
	Who gets glaucoma?
	What causes glaucoma?
	Why is glaucoma harmful to vision?
	Will I go blind from glaucoma?
	How can I tell if I have glaucoma?
	How is glaucoma detected?
	How is glaucoma treated?
	Will my vision be restored after being treated?
	Can glaucoma be prevented?

	What is glaucoma?

	It is an eye disease in which the internal pressure of the eye rises to a point that the optic nerve becomes damaged. The pressure that builds up is due to improper drainage of the internal fluid of the eye. Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness.
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	Who gets glaucoma?

	Glaucoma is most frequently occurs in individuals over the age of 40 and is hereditary in some families. It is estimated that over 2 million Americans have glaucoma. These numbers are expected to rise as the majority of our population grows older. The most important risk factors include: Age Nearsightedness Family history of glaucoma Previous injuries to the eye African ancestry
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	What causes glaucoma?
	The liquid of the eye (aqueous humor) is produced by the eye and flows through the eye and drains out (drainage angle) just behind the point where the white of the eye meets the clear cornea. If this drainage angle becomes blocked or constricted, the outflow will be reduced. With fluid still coming into the eye, the pressure will build.
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	Why is glaucoma harmful to vision?
	The optic nerve carries the vision information to the brain. Glaucoma damages the nerve fibers, causing blind spots to develop. These blind spots are not noticed until much optic nerve damage has occurred. Thus, early detection and treatment are important.
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	Will I go blind from glaucoma?
	If untreated, glaucoma will damage sight. Elevated pressure within the eye can constrict the blood vessels that nourish the sensitive visual structures in the back of the eye. Because of the reduced blood supply, visual nerve cells die, resulting in some loss of vision. As the condition progresses, more nerve cells are damaged, and the range of vision becomes narrower. If left unchecked, this process can lead to total blindness.
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	How can I tell if I have glaucoma?
	Usually you can't. The vast majority of cases develop slowly over a period of months or years. In most cases, there are no symptoms. It can gradually destroy your vision without your knowing it. Some people experience vague symptoms - important early warning signs. Symptoms of more advanced glaucoma can include difficulty in adjusting to dark rooms, loss of side vision, and blurred vision. Other symptoms, such as halos or rainbows around lights and severe headaches or pain may occur.
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	How is glaucoma detected
	By careful examination of the eye by your eyecare practicioner. The examination includes a simple and painless measurement of pressure in the eye with a tonometer. The doctor will also look into the eye to observe the health of the optic nerve and, if needed measure your field of vision.
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	How is glaucoma treated?
	Glaucoma is usually effectivly treated by using eye drops. Sometimes oral medications are used and surgery may be necessary.
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	Will my vision be restored after being treated?
	Unfortunately vision loss as a result of glaucoma is usually permanent and cannot be restored. That is why regular vision examinations are so important.
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	Can glaucoma be prevented?
	No, but early detection and treatment is the best way to reduce the chances of damage to the eye and a loss of sight. If you have a family history of glaucoma you should be examined yearly.
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Searcy Eye Care Center
Howard F. Flippin, O.D.
Patricia Westfall-Ellsberry, O.D.
Airiell Schwab, O.D.
410 West Race Avenue
Searcy, AR 72143
(501) 268-3577