Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness in the world. It occurs when the pressure in the eye is too high. As the pressure rises, the optic nerve can be damaged resulting in a gradual and permanent loss of vision. If left untreated, glaucoma may eventually lead to total blindness.
Because the beginning symptoms of glaucoma often go unnoticed, regular eye exams are important to detect the disease early.
Glaucoma typically affects the peripheral vision first. If left untreated, the glaucoma gradually progresses until the patient has only a small amount of central vision left. Loss of this central vision to severe, late-stage glaucoma results in irreversible blindness. This is why glaucoma is called “The Sneaking Thief of Sight” – the vast majority of patients with glaucoma cannot tell they have it until the disease has become very severe. This is why detection with regular eye exams and early intervention is so important for preserving sight.
Risk factors for glaucoma include age, family history, ethnicity, and other anatomic factors in the eye. African-Americans are particularly susceptible to glaucoma and should receive regular eye exams at least annually.
Fortunately, it is possible to slow or stop the progression of glaucoma with appropriate treatment. Treatment of glaucoma is focused on lowering the pressure inside the eye to stop further vision loss. Glaucoma may be treated in a variety of ways, including laser, medicated eye drops, and procedures.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
Our experienced ophthalmologists, including our board-certified glaucoma specialist, Dr. Wood, will work with you to evaluate the severity of your glaucoma and will recommend a personalized treatment plan. We offer the latest and most advanced interventional glaucoma techniques and technology to our patients in order to preserve as much vision as possible. During your initial appointment, a trained technician will perform several diagnostic tests. These may include:
- A standard eye chart test to measure visual acuity
- A visual field test to measure peripheral vision
- A test that measures the pressure in the eye
- An OCT (optical coherence tomography) test performs cross-sectional imaging using light to measure layers of the retina and optic nerve in order to detect changes in pathology
- A corneal pachymetry test will measure the thickness of the cornea
- Pupil dilation, which increases the size of the pupil and allows for assessing the health of the entire eye
When you visit RGB Cataract and LASIK, our friendly and caring staff goes above and beyond to help make you as comfortable as possible during your appointment.
Contact Us Today For More Information
RGB Cataract and LASIK is conveniently located off Highway 75 North in Sherman, Texas. Call 903-892-3282 to schedule an appointment.
RGB Cataract and LASIK. For the treatment you and your eyes deserve.
