What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that cause damage to the optic nerve, often due to increased pressure in the eye (intraocular pressure), but can be seen in patients with normal eye pressures as well. Over time, this damage can lead to vision loss, starting with peripheral vision and progressing to total blindness if untreated. Glaucoma is often called the "silent thief of sight" because it typically has no early symptoms, making regular screenings crucial for early detection.

Why Glaucoma Screening Is Important

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide, and early detection is the key to preventing irreversible damage. Without regular screenings, many patients do not notice vision changes until the disease has progressed significantly. By diagnosing glaucoma early, we can implement treatment to slow its progression and protect your vision.

What to Expect During a Glaucoma Screening

Our glaucoma screening process involves several tests to assess your eye health and measure your intraocular pressure. These include:

  • Tonometry: This test measures the pressure inside your eyes. Elevated pressure can be a sign of glaucoma.
  • Ophthalmoscopy: We examine the optic nerve for signs of damage using specialized equipment that provides a clear view of the back of your eye.
  • Visual Field Test: This test checks for peripheral vision loss, one of the early signs of glaucoma.
  • Pachymetry: This test measures the thickness of your cornea, which can help determine your risk for glaucoma. A thinner cornea may indicate a higher risk.

These tests allow us to assess your risk for glaucoma and detect any signs of the disease at an early stage.

 

Types of Glaucoma

There are several types of glaucoma, each with different characteristics and risks. These include:

  • Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma: The most common form of glaucoma, it progresses slowly and typically has no early symptoms.
  • Angle-Closure Glaucoma: This type occurs when the drainage angle of the eye becomes blocked, causing a sudden increase in eye pressure. It’s a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment.
  • Normal-Tension Glaucoma: In this form, optic nerve damage occurs even though eye pressure is within the normal range. Other factors, such as poor blood flow, may contribute to this type of glaucoma.
  • Secondary Glaucoma: This can occur as a result of injury, infection, or another eye condition.

Understanding which type of glaucoma you have helps us tailor your treatment plan to protect your vision.

Treatment Options for Glaucoma

If glaucoma is detected during your screening, our optometrists will work with you to develop a treatment plan to slow the progression of the disease and prevent further damage. Treatment options include:

  • Prescription Eye Drops: These medications help lower eye pressure by either reducing the production of fluid in the eye or improving fluid drainage.
  • Laser Therapy: Laser treatments can open up blocked drainage channels or reduce the production of fluid, helping to lower eye pressure.
  • Surgery: In more advanced cases, surgery may be needed to create a new drainage channel for fluid to leave the eye.

Regular follow-up appointments will be necessary to monitor your condition and adjust your treatment plan as needed.

Who Should Have Regular Glaucoma Screenings?

Certain individuals are at higher risk for developing glaucoma and should have regular screenings. This includes:

  • Individuals over the age of 40.
  • People with a family history of glaucoma.
  • Individuals with high intraocular pressure.
  • People with diabetes, high blood pressure, or severe myopia.

If you fall into one of these categories, regular glaucoma screenings are essential to protect your vision.

Book an appointment

Early detection is the key to preventing vision loss from glaucoma. At Victoria Village Optometry, we offer comprehensive screenings and personalized treatment plans to help you maintain healthy vision. Schedule your glaucoma screening today and safeguard your eyesight.

Address

1315 Lawrence Avenue East, Unit 513, Toronto, ON, M3A 3R3, Canada

Contact

416-759-6060

info@myvvo.ca