glaucoma

At Crystal Clear Eye Surgeons, we detect and treat glaucoma.

Glaucoma is a condition that affects one or both eyes. It is associated with damage to inner parts of the eye (optic disc) and loss of vision. The amount of vision loss will depend on the severity and how long the condition has been present. We offer several glaucoma procedures to treat our patients.

What causes glaucoma?

Many factors play a role in the development of glaucoma. However, the primary factor is intraocular pressure (IOP). There is gel-like fluid inside the eye called aqueous humor. This fluid helps to shape and keep the eye healthy. It also causes a small amount of pressure inside the eye. Sometimes this pressure can get too high; this is called ocular hypertension (OH).

A person can have OH and not have any loss of vision. But over time, this high pressure can begin to damage sensitive parts of the eye. This may lead to vision loss. Once damage starts to occur, the person is said to have glaucoma.

It is important to note that glaucoma can be caused by many factors other than IOP. Some people may get glaucoma but never have a high IOP. Your doctor can help explain all the causes of glaucoma.

How is glaucoma and ocular hypertension diagnosed?

Ocular hypertension (OH) is diagnosed by actually measuring the IOP of each eye. This is done with a machine that uses a special tool to measure the pressure in your eye. Once the doctor knows what your IOP is, he/she will do an eye examination and other tests. This is to see if any loss of vision has occurred. It also will help show if there is any damage to the internal parts of the eye.

Here at Crystal Clear Eye Surgeons, we offer a state of the art diagnostic and monitoring tool, called an OCT, which helps our doctors to clearly see the internal structures of your eye, so problems can be treated before they progress.

The doctor will also use information about any family history of glaucoma, medicine use, and your past medical history.

Are there risk factors for glaucoma?

Certain factors can increase a person's risk of developing glaucoma. Your doctor can determine if these or other risk factors are present. A few of these risk factors are:

• Age over 50;
• Very high IOP;
• Thin cornea (an outer layer of your eye);
• African Americans over age 40;
• Individuals with other health conditions, such as diabetes.

Call us today to schedule your complete eye exam so we can help you monitor your overall eye health.