Regular Eye Exams Can Prevent Vision Loss Caused by Glaucoma

January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month. Glaucoma is the leading cause of preventable blindness and affects more than 2.2 million Americans. The disease often has no symptoms and goes unnoticed until permanent vision loss occurs. The only way to catch the disease before irreversible damage occurs to the optic nerve is through periodic dilated eye exams.

Eye exams include a tonometry test that gauges intraocular pressure. Don’t worry; this is not the dreaded “puff” test. As a glaucoma specialist, I use a more sophisticated, patient-friendly device in my clinics in Kilgore and White Oak. Because eye pressure fluctuates and varies greatly between individuals, in order to properly diagnose glaucoma it is necessary to dilate the pupils and thoroughly examine the inside of the eye.

What is glaucoma?

Most types of glaucoma develop when fluid pressure builds within the eye, known as intraocular pressure. Normally, a watery fluid called aqueous humor is produced in the eye to flow nourishment to the lens and cornea; it then drains out through mesh-like channels in the front of the eye. If these drainage channels become blocked, intraocular pressure rises. With time, the building pressure causes damage to the optic nerve which carries images from the eye to the brain, resulting in permanent vision loss.

Early diagnosis is critical

Currently there is no cure for glaucoma. Fortunately, if diagnosed early, glaucoma can be treated and vision can be preserved. Various medications, laser surgery and conventional surgery have proved successful in maintaining vision and eye health in glaucoma patients. With funding from organizations such as the Glaucoma Research Foundation, more is being learned about glaucoma every day. Ongoing clinical and laboratory research is unlocking the secrets of early detection and striving to find a cure for the disease.

Stick to an exam schedule

Remember to schedule a dilated eye exam and discuss your family’s medical history with your optometrist. Also ask about other factors that may increase your risk of developing glaucoma. Once you have evaluated your risk, stick to the exam schedule recommended by your doctor. Eye exams are the only way to detect glaucoma early and preserve your vision.

Dr. Jeff Pinkerton
I care for you.