Glaucoma is a group of dangerous eye diseases that can impair your vision. The condition is common and is one of the leading causes of blindness. It is vital to get regular eye exams so glaucoma can be caught early and slowed down. At MacQueen Eye Care Center in Chicago, IL, our eye care team diagnoses and provides treatment options for glaucoma. Our optometrist can guide you on what signs and symptoms of glaucoma to look for so you know when to get an eye exam. Our goal is to keep your eye health and vision at their best.
What Is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma causes damage to the eye's optic nerve, which causes vision impairment. This damage typically results from fluid building up in the front part of the eye. The eye is designed to take in fluid called aqueous humor, and as it does, it is supposed to push the old fluid out and allow the eye to drain. In doing this, it helps to ensure that the eye does not suffer too much pressure. However, if the eye does not drain properly, fluid and pressure begin to build up, leading to damage to the optic nerve. The damage to the optic nerve is gradual and happens over time, so you may not even recognize that the harm has occurred until it begins damaging your vision.
Types of Glaucoma
Glaucoma does not only manifest in one way. There are several types of glaucoma. The most common type of glaucoma is called open-angle glaucoma. This occurs when the eye drains fluid slowly and improperly. The other common type of glaucoma is referred to as angle-closure glaucoma. It occurs when the eye's drainage system is completely blocked and no fluid can drain. This type of glaucoma is significantly more severe, as it increases eye pressure much more quickly. If not taken care of immediately, it may result in complete blindness.
Symptoms of Glaucoma
Unfortunately, glaucoma doesn't always present many symptoms, especially early on. Open-angle glaucoma's symptoms include blind spots in your peripheral vision and tunnel vision. Early symptoms of angle-closure glaucoma include eye pain, blurry vision, mild headaches, eye redness, and seeing halos around lights.
Visit Our Eye Care Team in Chicago, IL for Glaucoma Testing
It is important to get regular eye exams so our optometrist can detect glaucoma early. If you are experiencing symptoms of glaucoma, visit us immediately. At MacQueen Eye Care Center in Chicago, IL, our optometrist will diagnose you and guide you on treatment options. Glaucoma treatment includes eye drops and surgery. Both methods work to reduce pressure in the eye. While any damage cannot be reversed, the condition can be slowed down. We are happy to answer any questions you have about glaucoma. Call us today to schedule an appointment.