Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness.
Spinak Medical Eye Center’s board certified ophthalmologists test for and treat all types of glaucoma to stabilize and control additional loss of vision. You have questions and we are here to answer them.
What is glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a disease of the optic nerve which is the nerve connecting the eye to the visual centers in the brain. While there are different types of glaucoma with varying characteristics, it is usually diagnosed when someone has a combination of high eye pressure and damage to the optic nerve. It can lead to loss of peripheral vision, and if untreated, blindness.
What are the symptoms of glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a tricky disease because there are no obvious symptoms. It typically does not cause pain, redness or a noticeable change in the vision. However, patients with glaucoma develop changes in the appearance of the optic nerve and blind spots in the peripheral vision.
Closed angle glaucoma typically presents more dramatically with a sudden and severe increase in eye pressure accompanied by redness, pain, seeing halos, and blurred vision. Closed angle glaucoma is an eye emergency and requires immediate treatment.
What should you do?
Schedule an appointment and Dr. Andrew Spinak or Dr. John Chang will perform a comprehensive eye exam and then will explain your options and answer any questions you may have about glaucoma.
We encourage you to ask questions, take notes and if you wish, bring in someone to help you listen or communicate your concerns.