Understanding Glaucoma for NJ Eye Patients
Glaucoma is a grouping of diseases that can damage the eye’s optic nerve and eventually lead to vision loss and blindness. The optic nerve is a bundle of more than one million nerve fibers that act as an “information highway” between the retina in the eye and the brain. The retina is responsible for light-sensitive information when you look at something and relays the image to the brain via the optic nerve so it can process what is being seen. In a natural and unaltered state, a healthily optic nerve is an essential piece of good vision health. Without efficient use, vision is significantly clouded and seeing clearly is a struggle.
Glaucoma Risk Factors
Have you ever wondered what makes a patient predisposed to developing glaucoma? There are certain factors that do, in fact, increase the risk of developing the collective disease. Patients over the age of 60 are one group at risk of attaining this condition – and in African Americans this issue becomes more of a concern after the age of 40. Those of Asian descent also see a problematic scenario of angle-closure glaucoma, while specifically those with a Japanese background are more prone to low-tension glaucoma. Other eye-related causes that affect the development of glaucoma include optic nerve appearance, retinal detachment, eye tumors and eye inflammation. To accurately assess every patient, family history and any preexisting medical conditions are always examined during your initial visit to Marano Eye Care.
Common Types of Glaucoma
Aside from primary glaucoma, there are additional ways in which the disease can form. When an individual suffers from a medical condition, physical injury or eye abnormality, secondary glaucoma may follow. In short, the following types of glaucoma are easily identifiable due to increasing pressure in the eye.
Open-Angle Glaucoma
The most commonly seen form of glaucoma at Marano Eye Care is open-angle glaucoma. In this condition, fluid pressure within the eye increases and is unable to drain. This results in severe stress on the optic nerve as vision fades.
Angle-Closure Glaucoma
Angle-closure glaucoma is a less common form of the disease. It occurs when the drainage angle in the eye becomes blocked or closed. The pressure built up within the eye causes it to push forward, decreasing the space between the iris and the cornea. This type of glaucoma should be treated as a medical emergency and can result in severe vision loss within days of its first symptoms.
Glaucoma Symptoms
When considering professional help for glaucoma treatment near you, it’s important to know the various symptoms that are associated with the condition. The following are common symptoms of glaucoma:
- Blind spots in peripheral vision
- Halos in line of sight
- Mild to severe headaches
- Eye pain
- Redness of the eye
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Decreased or blurred vision
Glaucoma Treatment in NJ
Marano Eye Care is dedicated to providing glaucoma patients the quality eye service they deserve. With years of experience, compassionate care and cutting-edge equipment, our staff will work closely with you to find the best solution. To test for eye symptoms or find relief from your eye condition, contact Marano Eye Care at a location near you and receive the support you need to restore vision.
