Glaucoma
What is glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a serious eye disease that can damage the optic nerve, often due to high intraocular pressure. This condition can lead to progressive vision loss or even blindness if left untreated. Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide, but it can be managed if detected early.
Types of glaucoma:
Open-angle glaucoma: The most common type, it progresses slowly without symptoms until peripheral vision begins to deteriorate.
Closed-angle glaucoma: Less common, this is a medical emergency that causes severe pain and blurred vision.
Normal-tension glaucoma: Damage to the optic nerve occurs despite normal intraocular pressure.
Symptoms of glaucoma:
Glaucoma is often called "the silent thief of sight" because it progresses without symptoms. Advanced symptoms include:
Loss of peripheral vision
Blurred vision, halos around lights
Severe eye pain, especially in angle-closure glaucoma
Risk factors:
Age (40 and older)
Family history
High intraocular pressure
Certain conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure
Long-term use of corticosteroids
Glaucoma Screening
At Altitude Optometry Gatineau, our optometrists use state-of-the-art technology (OCT, visual field testing, tonometry) to monitor intraocular pressure and the health of the optic nerve. Regular eye exams help detect glaucoma at an early stage, which is essential for preserving vision.
Glaucoma treatments:
Glaucoma cannot be cured, but it can be managed by:
Eye drops: Reduce the production of intraocular fluid.
Laser therapy: Helps with drainage or reduces fluid buildup.
Surgery: In advanced cases, to improve fluid drainage.