What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma refers to a group of diseases that cause damage to the optic nerve. Containing more than a million nerve fibers, the optic nerve connects the eye to the brain. This important nerve is responsible for carrying images to the brain. The optic nerve fibers make up a part of the retina that gives us sight.

What are the symptoms of glaucoma?

It is estimated that 3 million Americans have glaucoma, and only half of them know that they have glaucoma. In many patients, glaucoma is not noticed in the early stages because there is no pain and no noticeable change in vision. That's why glaucoma has been called "the silent thief" of sight. Early detection  is the key to the prevention of vision damage from glaucoma. Dittman Eyecare, Inc. uses nerve fiber layer analysis, the latest and most advanced means of glaucoma detection. Nerve fiber layer analysis often detects glaucoma long before other tests show any signs of disease. We also use automated visual fields,  digital stereo optic nerve photography, and corneal pachymetry to help aid us in diagnosing and treating patients who have glaucoma or are at risk for this disease.  We recommend routine eye examinations for all their patients and their families, particularly if they have a family history of glaucoma.

What are the treatment options?

The treatment option consists of long term usage of eye drops which concentrate on trying to lowering the intraocular pressure to preserve the optic nerve tissue.  Second line treatments are use of a laser lto ower the pressure and for advance cases actual eye surgery, a trabectulectomy, may be needed to save sight.