GLAUCOMA TREATMENT/ SURGERY GLAUCOMA: "THE SNEAK THIEF OF SIGHT"
Glaucoma is often referred to as the "sneak thief of sight." It
has been given this name because the most common type, known as
Chronic Open Angle Glaucoma, has no pain or symptoms associated
with its onset. Glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness in
the United States. Fortunately, if it is treated in its earliest
stages, damage and loss of vision are usually preventable.
Glaucoma is caused by the buildup of aqueous inside the front of
the eye. Aqueous is a clear fluid that constantly flows through
the inner chamber of the eye, maintaining a certain pressure.
When this fluid builds up, it causes abnormal pressure inside
the eye and can cause progressive damage to the optic nerve in
the back of the eye. This damage is permanent. It is very
important to have regular complete eye exams. Glaucoma can be
treated with medication, in some cases laser surgery or other
surgical procedures may be necessary to reduce the intraocular
pressure. Regular ey