About Glaucoma Management

Glaucoma Q & A

What is glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a slow-developing eye disease typically caused by increased pressure in the eye that damages the optic nerve and leads to vision changes. However, glaucoma is a manageable condition when caught early, and it can be treated to minimize vision loss.

Dr. Turner recommends an annual comprehensive eye exam for adults and children to stay on top of eye health and to monitor for signs of glaucoma.

How do I know if I have glaucoma?

Glaucoma often doesn’t show signs or symptoms, which makes having an annual eye exam at Eldorado Vision & Optical an important part of your health care routine. Dr. Turner offers specialized tests to determine if you have glaucoma, including:

Tonometer Test

This test measures the pressure inside your eye to assess your risk of glaucoma. To ease any discomfort during the test, Dr. Turner may apply a numbing agent before she starts.

Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)

This test uses light waves to get a digital image of your retina.

If you don’t get your eyes checked annually and have glaucoma, you may begin to notice vision changes, such as the inability to see objects from your peripheral vision. As time without treatment progresses, your central vision will begin to decrease and could eventually lead to blindness.

How is glaucoma treated?

If Dr. Turner identifies that you have glaucoma, she will work with you to develop a treatment plan, which might include prescription eye drops or oral medications to decrease eye pressure. If a patient requires advanced treatment or surgery, Dr. Turner may refer you to an Ophthalmologist who specializes in glaucoma.

If Dr. Turner prescribes medication to help improve eye pressure, it’s important to take the medication as directed to minimize optic nerve damage and changes in vision. The medication can’t cure glaucoma, but it can prevent further eye damage and vision loss. Once your vision is lost from the effects of glaucoma, it won’t come back.
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To get a thorough eye examination and prevent damage to your eyes from glaucoma, call Eldorado Vision & Optical or schedule an appointment online today.