Eye Conditions

It is estimated that over two million Americans have some type of glaucoma and half of them do not know it.  Glaucoma is an eye disease frequently associated with elevated eye pressure.  It causes damage to the optic nerve and can potentially lead to vision loss.  Although it cannot be cured, it usually can be controlled.  Vision loss may be minimized with early detection and treatment.  Glaucoma is a chronic disease that must be followed and monitored for life.

Everyone should be checked for glaucoma at around age 35 and again at age 40.  Those considered to be at higher risk, including those over the age of 60 should have their pressure checked every year or two. 

To control glaucoma, we use one of three basic types of treatment:  medicines, laser surgery or filtration surgery.  The goal of treatment is to lower the pressure in the eye.