Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a disorder of the optic nerve, which connects the eye to the brain. Glaucoma can result in damage to the optic nerve, which can lead to progressive loss of vision and even blindness. Often the vision loss that occurs early in the disease process is not noticeable, which is why regular comprehensive eye examinations are so important in preventing further vision loss. Glaucoma is associated with elevated intraocular pressure. Treatments for glaucoma are currently geared toward lowering intraocular pressure, which will slow or halt the progression of glaucoma.
An examination for glaucoma includes a check of the intraocular pressure, a check of corneal thickness, a test to assess the drain or “angle” of the eye, (some forms of glaucoma can result from the drain narrowing or becoming closed), a check of the intraocular pressure, a dilated examination of the optic nerve, a highly sensitive scan of the optic nerve, and in some people, an automated test of the peripheral vision to assess for subtle decreased vision.
If it is determined that a patient has glaucoma, we try to lower the intraocular pressure to reduce the risk of further damage. This can be accomplished in several ways. There are multiple prescription eye drops that can lower eye pressure effectively. This is the least invasive option, and often we start with eye drops. There are downsides to drops, however, as the patient must remember to take them every day, and the drops can sometimes cause irritation to the surface of the eye. An alternative to eye drops is a laser procedure referred to as selective laser trabeculoplasty or SLT. Using a laser, the drainage system of the eye is stimulated, which can result in more effective drainage, and a lowering of the eye pressure. Finally, surgery sometimes is necessary to get the eye pressure low enough to prevent worsening of glaucoma. Traditional glaucoma surgery is very effective at lowering eye pressure, but there are many risks associated with these procedures. More recently the advent of “micro-invasive” glaucoma surgery has given us less invasive, less risky surgical options to lower eye pressure. Often these “mini” glaucoma surgeries can be done at the same time as cataract surgery. At Stillwater Eyecare we offer all three treatments for glaucoma: drops, laser, and surgery. If you have not been evaluated recently for glaucoma, or if glaucoma is known to run in your family, please call us at Stillwater Eyecare 405-743-4212 to set up an evaluation. You may also visit our Youtube Channel or our Facebook page for other useful information on eye health and eye disease.