Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a term used to refer to a group of eye diseases that ultimately cause damage to the optic nerve. Unfortunately, there is no cure for glaucoma; but there are treatments available to help manage the condition and prevent vision loss. People with Glaucoma often experience slow and gradual vision loss that is so subtle, it is virtually undetectable until it reaches advanced stages. Early Glaucoma often presents with no symptoms which is why it is important to visit an eye doctor periodically for comprehensive eye exams. As the disease progresses, it can cause eye pain and nausea, as well as total vision loss.

Did you know:

that Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness in the United States? It accounts for approximately 10 percent of all cases of total vision loss – some who lose their vision despite seeking treatment. The disease can strike anyone at any time, from birth to old age. More than 2 million Americans are believed to live with glaucoma, of whom only 50 percent have received a diagnosis.

How do we approach Glaucoma testing at Everglades Eye Care?

During the comprehensive exam, the doctor will examine the ocular structures thoroughly and also review our retinal/optic nerve head scans using the Maestro Ocular Tomographer (OCT). This scan measures specific cells in the retina and the optic nerve head and using an algorithm can pick up subtle changes that may indicate early Glaucoma. Since early detection determines how effective treatment can be, the Maestro OCT is an invaluable tool not only in the detection but treatment in Glaucoma.