Glaucoma

Ophthalmologist located in Sacramento, CA

Glaucoma is a leading cause of vision loss in older persons where eye pressure builds to a point where damage becomes imminent. You can prevent unwanted eye pressure and vision loss by scheduling regular eye exams with Barbara J. Arnold, MD, in Sacramento, California. Call the office today to book an appointment, or click the website and reserve a timeslot through the scheduling tool.

What is glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, which is responsible for transmitting important visual information to the brain and causes vision loss. It’s often associated with increased pressure in the eye, although it can occur even when the pressure is normal. 

Glaucoma is a progressive disease, meaning it worsens over time and leads to blindness if left untreated. Currently, it’s a leading cause of blindness worldwide, but early detection and treatment can help preserve your vision.

How did I get glaucoma?

The most common cause of glaucoma is elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), which occurs when the fluid in the eye cannot drain properly. This leads to pressure buildup and eventual damage to the surrounding tissue. 

Other factors such as age, genetics, and some medical conditions can also contribute to the development of glaucoma. It’s important to note that not all people with elevated IOP develop glaucoma, and some individuals with normal IOP can still develop the condition.

What can I do to get rid of glaucoma?

Treatment for glaucoma aims to slow the progression of the disease and prevent vision loss. Dr. Arnold can treat glaucoma through various means, such as medications or surgery. Sometimes both are required for optimal treatment. 

Dr. Arnold can use medications, such as eye drops, to reduce intraocular pressure, the main cause of glaucoma. Laser surgery can improve the flow of fluids out of the eye to further reduce eye pressure. Sometimes, conventional surgery may also help by creating a new drainage channel for fluid to exit the eye. 

Does glaucoma come back?

Glaucoma is categorized as a chronic condition that requires ongoing management and monitoring. Even after successful treatment, glaucoma can recur or progress. You should schedule regular eye exams to detect symptoms early and manage any changes in eye pressure or vision. 

You should be proactive in maintaining your eye health and managing any other health conditions that could increase the risk of glaucoma if you have a history of the condition. However, the risk of recurrence can be minimized with proper treatment and management.

Call Dr. Arnold at the Sacramento, California, office today to schedule an eye exam or book online through the reservation system.