Glaucoma is a progressive optic nerve disease that causes degenerative peripheral vision loss with eventual central vision loss. Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness, damaging the optic nerve. It’s estimated that 3 million Americans have developed glaucoma, but because the symptoms are so quiet only half of those people are aware of it.

Symptoms & Types of Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a silent disease, which is why only half of the people with glaucoma are aware of it. There are many forms of glaucoma. A few are open-angle, closed-angle and normal tension.  In its early stages, open-angle glaucoma has no obvious symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, blind spots develop in the peripheral vision.

Those at risk for angle closure glaucoma experience symptoms ranging in severity. If a person experiences an attack of angle-closure glaucoma he/she will suffer from a severe headache, eye redness, decreased vision, vision rainbows, nausea, and vomiting.

People will “normal tension glaucoma” can have their eye pressure within normal ranges yet show signs of glaucoma such as a peripheral blind spot on a visual field test and optic nerve damage.

What are the Risks?

People who are at the greatest risk of developing glaucoma include those who are over 40, have family members with the disease, have high eye pressure, are farsighted or nearsighted, have had an eye injury, or have diabetes.

Some people are at greater risk for developing glaucoma and should see their eye doctor on a regular basis.

The Importance of an Eye Exam

The only way to diagnose glaucoma is with a complete eye exam, as glaucoma screening that only checks eye pressure is not enough to detect glaucoma. Early detection could save your vision, which is why it’s so important to schedule regular eye exams.

CALL THE CATONSVILLE EYE GROUP TODAY!

Here at the Catonsville Eye Group, providing the best patient care is out #1 priority. The professionalism of our doctors coupled with our capable and caring staff, state of the art technology, and extensive frame and lens options are what have made Catonsville Eye Group the first choice for families in our community.  We strive to provide the best possible professional care at fair and reasonable prices to our patients in the most courteous way possible!

If you would like to schedule an appointment, order contact lenses, or ask questions about our services at Catonsville Eye Group, please call our office at (410) 747-1221 or email us by clicking this link. We will respond to your request within 24 hours. You can also schedule an appointment online! You can access our web scheduler through our website or Facebook page.

We’re located at the heart of the Music City at 611 Frederick Rd., Suite 101. Drop on by, or schedule an appointment today. We’re looking forward to seeing you!