Glaucoma

Glaucoma, a group of eye diseases that can lead to vision loss and blindness, affects millions worldwide. This condition arises when the optic nerve, responsible for transmitting visual information to the brain, becomes damaged due to elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) or other factors. As the optic nerve deteriorates, your peripheral vision gradually diminishes, eventually progressing to central vision loss if left untreated.

Understanding Glaucoma

Glaucoma can develop due to various underlying causes, but the primary factor is an increase in intraocular pressure (IOP). This pressure buildup occurs when the eye's drainage system becomes blocked or functions inefficiently, leading to an accumulation of fluid within the eye.

The causes of glaucoma can be broadly categorized into two main types:

• Open-angle glaucoma: This is the most common form of glaucoma, accounting for approximately 90% of cases. In open-angle glaucoma, the drainage channels within the eye remain open, but the fluid drainage is inadequate, leading to a gradual increase in IOP.

• ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Angle-closure glaucoma: In this less common type, the drainage channels become blocked, causing a sudden and significant rise in IOP. This condition can lead to an acute glaucoma attack, which is a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment.
  
  

While elevated IOP is a significant risk factor, other factors can contribute to the development of glaucoma, including:

• Age: The risk of glaucoma increases as you grow older.

• Family history: Individuals with a family history of glaucoma are at a higher risk.

• Ethnic background: Certain ethnic groups, such as African Americans and Hispanics, have an increased risk of developing glaucoma.

• Medical conditions: Conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and eye injuries can contribute to the development of glaucoma.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Glaucoma

In its early stages, glaucoma often exhibits no noticeable symptoms, making regular eye exams crucial for early detection. However, as the disease progresses, you may experience the following symptoms:

• Gradual vision loss: Glaucoma typically begins with the loss of peripheral (side) vision, which can go unnoticed until significant vision loss occurs.

• Tunnel vision: As the disease progresses, your central vision may become increasingly constricted, leading to tunnel vision.

• Eye pain or discomfort: In cases of acute angle-closure glaucoma, you may experience severe eye pain, headaches, nausea, and vomiting.

• Halos or rainbow-colored rings around lights: These visual disturbances can occur due to increased eye pressure.

• Eye redness or blurred vision: These symptoms may be present in some cases of glaucoma.
  
  

Regular comprehensive eye exams are essential for early detection and timely treatment, even if you do not experience any noticeable symptoms.

Innovative Diagnostic Testing for Glaucoma

At Canyon Optometry, we utilize state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to detect and monitor glaucoma accurately. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment and preserving your vision.

The Virtual Vision VR headset is a revolutionary diagnostic tool that allows us to assess your visual field in a unique way. This technology enables us to evaluate your peripheral vision and identify any potential defects or vision loss associated with glaucoma.

The Optos Monaco is an advanced ultra-widefield retinal imaging system that captures high-resolution images of the back of your eye, including the optic nerve and retina. This technology provides us with a comprehensive view of your eye's health, allowing for early detection and monitoring of glaucoma-related changes.

By leveraging these innovative diagnostic tools, our team can accurately assess your risk for glaucoma, monitor the progression of the condition, and tailor treatment plans to your specific needs.