Glaucoma – The Symptoms and Signs

Glaucoma valparaiso | eye health indianaWhat is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma has often been called The Silent Thief of Sight.  It is a complicated disease which affects the optic nerve. It is also progressive; the nerve damage eventually leads to the irreversible loss of sight. There are several different types of glaucoma; two of the most common are primary open angle glaucoma and angle closure glaucoma. Glaucoma usually affects both eyes, but one eye may have more severe symptoms than the other. Glaucoma is the second leading cause of preventable blindness in America, even though there are effective treatments available.

When is Glaucoma diagnosed?

Most people have no early symptoms of glaucoma. The good news is that glaucoma can be diagnosed at an annual eye exam and treated so that it does not progress. Dr. Van Putten specializes in the diagnosis, treatment and management of glaucoma.

If you are concerned or think you may have glaucoma, here are a few possible risk factors:

  • People over the age of 60 are at higher glaucoma risk.
  • Myopia. People who are nearsighted have a higher risk of glaucoma.
  • Females are three times more likely to develop glaucoma as males.
  • Eye injuries or conditions. Some eye injuries, especially severe ones, are linked to a higher glaucoma risk. Retinal detachment, eye inflammation and eye tumors can also cause glaucoma.
  • Some illnesses. People with diabetes or hypothyroidism have a greater chance of developing glaucoma.
  • Corticosteroid Patients on long-term corticosteroids have an elevated risk of developing several different conditions, including glaucoma. The risk is even greater with eyedrops containing corticosteroids.

There are several treatment options available, such as eye drops and laser surgery. Based on each patient’s unique disease profile, Dr. Van Putten will determine which treatment protocol is appropriate.

Schedule a consultation

It’s important to remember that regular eye exams and proper treatment can slow glaucoma’s progression and prevent further loss of sight. Call our office, today, to schedule an appointment to learn more about glaucoma and its available treatment options: (219) 464-7546.