Glaucoma Explained in Massachusetts & Rhode Island

Glaucoma is an eye disease that occurs when excess fluid builds up on the surface of the eye, placing pressure on the optic nerve. A progressive disease, glaucoma can lead to vision loss if not treated. Glaucoma is one the most common eye conditions among the elderly, currently affecting about two million Americans, many of whom are unaware that they have the condition. Often, the disease is discovered during a routine eye examination that was scheduled because of blurred vision.

Although researchers have not discovered a cure for glaucoma, many treatment options are available to slow the progression of the disease and help you to live a fulfilled and prosperous life. Eye Health Vision Centers of the greater South Coast area provides comprehensive diagnoses and treatment for glaucoma, using innovative technologies and cutting-edge techniques. To learn more about our fight against glaucoma, schedule a consultation at our Dartmouth, Fairhaven, Fall River, or Taunton, MA or Middletown, RI location today.

As there are varying degrees of severity with glaucoma, symptoms of the disease span from mild to severe in nature. Some of the most common signs and symptoms of glaucoma include:

• Patchy blind spots in your peripheral and/or central vision
• Tunnel vision
• Severe headache
• Eye pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Blurred vision
• Halos around lights
• Eye redness

The cut and dry cause of glaucoma is the damage to the optic nerve. As elevated eye pressure (caused by a buildup of fluid) presses on the optic nerve, blind spots begin to develop, worsening if left untreated. Glaucoma often runs in families while scientists are discovering an inheritable gene that is directly related to high eye pressure and optic nerve damage. Certain factors exist that can increase an individual's risk of developing the condition, including naturally high internal eye pressure, being over 60 years of age, taking corticosteroid medications (especially eye drops) for extended periods, and having thin corneal centers.

It may be intimidating to receive a glaucoma diagnosis and further unsettling after researching the condition. But with the help of a specialized team of vision experts by your side, glaucoma does not have to be life-changing. After a comprehensive examination and an assessment of your current visual field compared to your historical visual field, we should be able to determine the pace at which the disease is progressing. This information will help us determine the best course of treatment for you. Often, patients in the beginning stages of the disease can be treated with prescription eye drops, saving more aggressive forms of treatment for cases that are further progressed. Eye Health Vision Centers is also proud to offer MIGS (minimally invasive glaucoma surgery) to those who are candidates. This surgical intervention can have a great impact on your vision. We also use traditional glaucoma surgery, trabeculectomy, and Ahmed valve surgeries as needed for treatment.

While a glaucoma diagnosis can be intimidating, it is something that we work with every day. With early intervention and a team of highly trained individuals who can provide ongoing maintenance, we can help keep symptoms at bay, providing you with the high quality of life you deserve to live. If you have a family history of glaucoma, have already received your diagnosis, or are beginning to experience related symptoms, we encourage you to contact Eye Health Vision Centers of the greater South Coast area at your earliest convenience.