What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that can damage the optic nerve and potentially lead to vision loss or blindness if not treated promptly. It usually results from high intraocular pressure due to fluid buildup in the eye. Open-angle glaucoma is the most common type, where drainage canals become clogged over time, causing increased pressure and possible optic nerve damage.

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Know Your Risk for Glaucoma

Understanding your risk factors can help you take proactive steps to prevent glaucoma or catch it early. Key risk factors include:

  • Age: Individuals over 60 are at higher risk.
  • Ethnicity: African Americans and Hispanics are more prone to glaucoma.
  • Family History: A family history of glaucoma increases your risk.
  • Medical Conditions: People with diabetes or high blood pressure are more likely to develop glaucoma.
  • Eye Injuries or Conditions: Previous eye injuries or conditions can also elevate risk.

Being aware of these risk factors and discussing them with your eye doctor can lead to more frequent monitoring and early intervention. Our team at Fishman & Sheridan EyeCare Specialists provides personalized care based on your specific risk profile.

Why Regular Eye Exams Help

Regular eye exams are essential for detecting glaucoma early and preventing irreversible vision loss. Glaucoma often develops without noticeable symptoms, which is why it’s known as the “silent thief of sight.” During a comprehensive eye exam, our skilled ophthalmologists can measure intraocular pressure, assess the health of your optic nerve, and perform visual field tests to identify any changes that might indicate glaucoma. Early detection allows us to start treatment promptly, which can slow or even halt the progression of the disease. By making regular eye exams a part of your routine, you protect your vision and maintain your quality of life.

Types of Glaucoma

  • Open-Angle Glaucoma: The most common type, occurring when the eye’s drainage canals gradually become blocked.
  • Angle-Closure Glaucoma: A less common type where the drainage canals are suddenly blocked, causing a rapid increase in eye pressure.
  • Congenital Glaucoma: Present at birth, causing sensitivity to light and cloudy corneas.
  • Normal-Tension Glaucoma: Glaucoma damage occurs without elevated intraocular pressure. It may be linked to blood flow issues or structural weaknesses in the optic nerve.

Glaucoma Treatments

Effective treatment focuses on lowering eye pressure and preventing further damage. Treatments include:

  • Eye Drops: The first line of treatment to reduce eye pressure by either decreasing fluid production or improving drainage.
  • Visual Fields & OCT: Essential for monitoring glaucoma. Visual field tests track peripheral vision changes, while OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) provides detailed images of the optic nerve to assess damage. These tests are regularly used to monitor glaucoma progression.
  • Laser Treatments: Advanced options like Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) help open blocked drainage channels to lower eye pressure. This procedure is available at our Leesburg office.
  • Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgeries (MIGS): Less invasive procedures with quicker recovery times:
    • Streamline®: Enhances fluid outflow to reduce pressure.
    • HydraSert®: A flexible device that aids fluid drainage.
    • XEN Gel Stent®: Creates a new drainage pathway for excess fluid, effectively lowering pressure.

Schedule Your Glaucoma Screening Today!

Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Schedule a comprehensive eye exam with Fishman & Sheridan EyeCare Specialists to evaluate your glaucoma risk. Our expert team in Leesburg, Clermont, and Eustis uses advanced technology for personalized care and effective treatments. Most vision insurance plans cover regular exams, making it easy to keep your eye health in check. Contact us at (352) 360-2301 to book your appointment and take proactive steps to protect your vision.