Understanding Glaucoma: What You Need to Know About This Progressive Eye Disease

Glaucoma is often called the "silent thief of sight" - and for good reason. This progressive eye disease typically develops without noticeable symptoms until significant vision loss has occurred. At Hoffman Eyecare, we believe that educating our patients about glaucoma is crucial for early detection and effective management. Understanding what glaucoma is and how it impacts your vision can empower you to take proactive steps to protect your eye health.

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma refers to a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, the critical link between your eyes and your brain. In many cases, this damage is caused by an increase in intraocular pressure (IOP) within the eye. Over time, elevated IOP can lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated. There are several types of glaucoma, but the two most common forms are:

• Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma: The most prevalent type, it develops slowly and painlessly over time, gradually reducing peripheral vision.

• Angle-Closure Glaucoma: A less common but more urgent form, it can cause sudden symptoms like severe eye pain, nausea, blurred vision, and halos around lights, requiring immediate medical attention.

Who is at Risk?

While anyone can develop glaucoma, certain factors increase your risk, including:

• Age (over 60 years old)

• Family history of glaucoma

• African American, Hispanic, or Asian heritage

• High intraocular pressure

• Thin corneas

• Existing eye injuries or certain medical conditions like diabetes and hypertension

Understanding your risk factors and maintaining a regular eye exam schedule are vital steps in protecting your vision.

Why Routine Eye Exams Are Essential

Because glaucoma often shows no warning signs in its early stages, many individuals are unaware they have the disease until it has already caused irreversible damage. This is why regular comprehensive eye exams are critical to protecting your vision and overall eye health.

During a routine eye exam at Hoffman Eyecare, we perform a series of important evaluations to detect glaucoma as early as possible. These include measuring your eye pressure, assessing the health of your optic nerve, evaluating your peripheral vision, and utilizing advanced imaging tests to identify any early signs of the disease.

Early detection is key to managing glaucoma effectively. When caught in its initial stages, treatment can begin before noticeable vision loss occurs. Depending on the severity and type of glaucoma, treatments such as prescription eye drops, laser therapy, or surgery may be recommended. These interventions are designed to control eye pressure and slow the progression of the disease, helping to preserve your vision for the future.

Protect Your Sight at Hoffman Eyecare

Glaucoma is a serious, sight-threatening disease - but with early detection and proper management, it does not have to lead to vision loss. Routine eye exams are your best defense, allowing us to catch glaucoma in its earliest stages when treatments are most effective.

Schedule a comprehensive eye exam with Hoffman Eyecare and stay one step ahead of glaucoma. Visit our office in Westfield, Indiana, or call (317) 339-1530 to book an appointment today.