
Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of vision loss worldwide, often developing without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. Because the damage caused by glaucoma cannot be reversed, early detection is the most effective way to protect your sight and maintain lifelong eye health.
Glaucoma refers to a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve - the part of your eye responsible for carrying visual information to your brain. This damage is often related to elevated pressure inside the eye (intraocular pressure), though some forms of glaucoma occur even with normal pressure. Without timely diagnosis and care, glaucoma can cause gradual peripheral vision loss and, in severe cases, total blindness.
The most common types of glaucoma include:
Open-Angle Glaucoma: The most common form, where fluid drains too slowly, causing a gradual buildup of pressure inside the eye.
Angle-Closure Glaucoma: A more acute form that occurs when the drainage angle between the iris and cornea becomes blocked, leading to a rapid increase in eye pressure and requiring immediate attention.
Normal-Tension Glaucoma: Damage to the optic nerve despite normal eye pressure.
Because glaucoma typically progresses silently, regular medical exams with our eye doctor in Fair Oaks are essential. During your exam, your optometrist will:
Measure intraocular pressure (IOP)
Examine your optic nerve for early signs of damage
Test your peripheral vision
Assess your corneal thickness and drainage angle
Early detection allows for effective glaucoma management in Fair Oaks, helping preserve your vision and prevent irreversible damage.
While glaucoma often has no obvious symptoms, you should schedule an exam if you notice:
Blurred or patchy vision
Loss of side vision
Eye pain or redness
Seeing halos around lights
Headaches or nausea
Prompt evaluation can make a significant difference in maintaining your vision and quality of life.
If diagnosed early, glaucoma can often be managed successfully to prevent further vision loss. Treatment focuses on lowering eye pressure and may include:
Prescription Eye Drops: The first line of defense to help reduce fluid buildup or improve drainage.
Oral Medications: Used in select cases to enhance pressure control.
Laser Therapy: Helps improve fluid outflow and reduce intraocular pressure.
Surgical Options: Recommended when other methods are not sufficient. When necessary, our optometrist will refer you to a trusted specialist for further care.
Glaucoma may develop quietly, but with proactive care, you can preserve your sight for years to come. Our eye doctors use advanced diagnostic technology and personalized treatment plans to detect and manage glaucoma at every stage.
Schedule your glaucoma evaluation today and experience compassionate, expert glaucoma management in Fair Oaks.