Glaucoma :
It ’ s complicated
Special thanks to Anna Park , M . D ., for contributing to this in-depth look at glaucoma and its impact on corneal health . Dr . Park has partnered with Eversight Illinois since 2002 and is a specialist in corneal and external diseases and cataract surgery at the Wheaton Eye Clinic .
Many people today have heard of glaucoma . It is currently one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide , and more than three million Americans are affected by the disease . While new therapies , diagnostic techniques and tools are being readily researched and utilized , there is still no true cure for the condition .
For patients with glaucoma , increased or high eye pressure can damage the optic nerve and cause gradual vision loss . This slow progression of deteriorating sight , which typically takes peripheral vision first , is often a patient ’ s only symptom . Over time , glaucoma can lead to the loss of central vision until no sight remains .
Normal vision
Vision with glaucoma
People of all ages and from all walks of life can develop glaucoma . Some groups , however , are at a higher risk than others and they include :
• African-Americans over age 40
• Everyone over age 60 , especially Mexican- Americans
• People with a family history of glaucoma
Fortunately , when detected early a variety of techniques can be used to control intraocular pressure and stave off the impact of glaucoma . These treatment options may consist of eye drops , oral medication or surgery to facilitate fluid drainage . The positive outcomes of early diagnosis and intervention make annual eye exams critical , particularly for those who fall into one of the highrisk categories .
When diagnosing glaucoma an ophthalmologist may measure a variety of factors , including inner-eye pressure , shape and color of the optic nerve , field of vision and corneal thickness .
Therapies and other medical interventions for glaucoma available today grant many patients years of continued eye health and sight . Unfortunately for others , the disease can cause further complications resulting in additional ocular concerns .
Individuals with complicated cases may be forced to endure multiple surgeries or uncontrolled eye pressure leading to corneal decomposition and dramatic vision loss . In these instances , a cornea transplant may be their only hope . While post-operation and follow-up care are required after a transplant , it offers the best option for sustaining sight when other treatments have been exhausted .
When a patient has multiple ocular issues it often takes a team of doctors and specialists to provide the best insight and course of action . Sometimes the gift of sight comes not just from one surgeon , but from the consultation and collaboration of colleagues willing to go above and beyond for those they serve .
Fall 2016 | VISION | Page 6