Often called "the silent thief of sight," glaucoma is an increase in the intraocular pressure of the eyes, which causes damage to the optic nerve with no signs or symptoms in the early stages of the disease. If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to a decrease in peripheral vision and eventually blindness.
While there is no cure for glaucoma, there are medications and surgery available that can help halt further vision loss. Early detection and regular eye exams are vital to slowing the progress of the disease.
How is glaucoma detected?
A comprehensive eye examination is often the only way to detect glaucoma. Your Doctor of Optometry will perform a simple and painless procedure called tonometry during your routine eye exam, which measures the internal pressure of your eye. Your Doctor of Optometry will also look into your eye to observe the health of the optic nerve and measure your field of vision.
How is glaucoma treated?
Treatment with daily eye drops and laser surgery is usually effective at maintaining your remaining vision. But once vision is lost due to glaucoma, it cannot be restored. This is why regular preventive eye exams with your Doctor of Optometry are so important.
Please call us at 604.553.3900 for more information or to book an appointment with one of our Doctors of Optometry. Or, visit us online at www.visionsourcenw.com
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