Glaucoma is a leading cause of vision loss worldwide, often developing without noticeable symptoms until significant damage has occurred. This progressive eye disease affects the optic nerve, which is responsible for transmitting visual information to the brain. Without early detection and proper management, glaucoma can lead to irreversible blindness. Understanding the signs, diagnostic methods, and available treatments can help protect your vision and prevent further complications.
 

What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that cause damage to the optic nerve, often due to increased pressure inside the eye (intraocular pressure). There are several types of glaucoma, with primary open-angle glaucoma being the most common. Other forms, such as angle-closure glaucoma and normal-tension glaucoma, also pose risks to vision.
 

The Importance of Regular Eye Exams

Since glaucoma is often asymptomatic in its early stages, many individuals remain unaware they have the condition until permanent vision loss has occurred. Routine eye exams are the most effective way to detect glaucoma early and initiate treatment before significant damage occurs.
 

At Mid-Modern Eyecare, we recommend annual comprehensive eye exams, especially for individuals over 40, those with a family history of glaucoma, or individuals with risk factors such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
 

How Is Glaucoma Diagnosed?

During an exam, an optometrist evaluates multiple aspects of eye health, including:

• Tonometry: Measures intraocular pressure (IOP). Elevated pressure is a major risk factor for glaucoma.

• Ophthalmoscopy: Examines the optic nerve for signs of damage.

• Visual Field Test: Assesses peripheral vision loss, one of the earliest indicators of glaucoma.

• Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): Provides detailed imaging of the optic nerve and retinal layers to detect structural changes.
   

By undergoing routine eye exams, patients at risk for glaucoma can receive early intervention and personalized treatment plans to slow progression.
 

Managing Glaucoma

While there is no cure for glaucoma, treatment can effectively manage the condition and preserve vision. The goal is to reduce intraocular pressure and prevent further optic nerve damage. Common treatment options include:

1. Prescription Eye Drops

Eye drops are often the first line of defense, working to either decrease fluid production in the eye or improve fluid drainage. Adherence to prescribed eye drop regimens is essential for effective management.
 

2. Oral Medications

In some cases, oral medications may be prescribed to help lower intraocular pressure when eye drops alone are not sufficient.
 

3. Laser Therapy a

Laser treatments, such as Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) or Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI), can help improve fluid drainage and lower eye pressure.
 

4. Surgical Interventions

For advanced glaucoma, surgical options such as trabeculectomy or minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) may be necessary to create alternative drainage pathways and reduce eye pressure effectively.
 

Protect Your Vision with Early Detection

Glaucoma is a silent but serious condition that can lead to irreversible vision loss if left untreated. The best defense is early detection through regular eye exams. By staying proactive about your eye health, you can significantly reduce the risk of vision impairment and maintain a high quality of life.
 

Contact Mid-Modern Eyecare to schedule your comprehensive glaucoma screening and take the first step toward protecting your vision. Visit our office in Midland, Michigan, or call (989) 486-3025 to book an appointment today.