Glaucoma
Glaucoma is an eye disease in which pressure inside the eye (intraocular pressure) rises dangerously high, damaging the optic nerve and causing vision loss. In a healthy eye, fluid is produced in the ciliary body, enters the eye, and then drains through tiny passages called the trabecular meshwork. In people with glaucoma, these passages become blocked and intraocular pressure rises.
Does glaucoma have any symptoms?
Glaucoma often develops over many years without causing pain – so you may not experience vision loss until the disease has progressed. Symptoms are occasionally present and should be taken as warning signs that glaucoma may be developing; these include blurred vision, loss of peripheral vision, halo effects around lights and painful or reddened eyes.
Is glaucoma treatable?
Once diagnosed, glaucoma can be controlled. Treatments to lower pressure in the eye include prescription eye drops, medications, laser therapy, and surgery.
In some cases, glaucoma can be treated with medications. For others, laser or traditional surgery is required to lower eye pressure. Common procedures may include:
- Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI) – For patients with narrow-angle glaucoma. A small hole is made in the iris to increase the angle between the iris and cornea and encourage fluid drainage.
- Argon Laser Trabeculoplasty (ALT) and Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) – For patients with primary open angle glaucoma (POAG). The trabecular passages are opened to increase fluid drainage. ALT is effective in about 75% of patients, and SLT may be repeated.
- Nd: YAG Laser Cyclophotocoagulation (YAG CP) – For patients with severe glaucoma damage who have not been helped with other surgeries. The ciliary body that produces intraocular fluid is destroyed.
- Filtering Microsurgery (Trabeculectomy) – For patients who have not been helped with laser surgery or medications. A new drainage passage is created by cutting a small hole in the sclera (the white part of the eye) and creating a collection pouch between the sclera and conjunctiva (the outer covering of the eye).
- Tube Shunt Surgery – May be recommended for patients with neovascular glaucoma, failed trabeculectomy, or susceptibility to developing scar tissue. A thin, flexible tube (a shunt) with a silicone pouch is inserted in the eye to facilitate drainage.
Macular Degeneration
Macular degeneration occurs when the macula, or central area of the retina, degrades causing a progressive loss of vision. Symptoms may include:
- A gradual loss of ability to see objects clearly
- Distorted vision
- A dark or empty area appearing in the center of vision
There are two kinds of macular degeneration: “wet” and “dry.” New advances in the treatment of the “wet” form of macular degeneration have significantly impacted our ability to manage this disease. Regular eye exams are highly recommended to detect macular degeneration as early as possible in an attempt to prevent permanent vision loss.
Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that weakens the blood vessels that nourish the retina. Vision can be affected if these weakened, irregular blood vessels leak, swell, or develop thin branches. In its advanced stages diabetic retinopathy can cause blurred or cloudy vision, floaters, blind spots, glaucoma, and possible blindness. Some of this damage is reversible, while some is irreversible. Regular screening with early detection and treatment can reverse or slow disease progression and often prevent further vision loss. Treatment modalities include strict blood sugar control in conjunction with possible retinal laser and injections.
Can diabetic retinopathy be prevented?
Yes. People with poorly controlled or long-standing diabetes are most susceptible to developing diabetic retinopathy, however the risk is reduced with strict regulation of blood sugar levels. Maintenance of blood sugar levels is often achieved by following your prescribed diet and medications, with regular exercise, control of your blood pressure, and avoidance of alcohol and cigarettes. We at Mercer Eye Associates work closely with our patients’ primary care physicians and endocrinologists to help recognize and treat this condition. Regular eye exams with screening for retinopathy in patients with diabetes are an integral part of disease prevention and treatment.
Dry Eye
“Dry eye” is very common. The three main categories of dry eye include decreased tear production, increased tear loss or evaporation, and irregular tear film composition. Dry eyes have varied causes, and comprehensive ophthalmic examination can often diagnose the underlying problem and offer effective treatment.
Dry eyes may develop as part of the natural aging process with changes in hormone levels and tear production. It can also form in relation to mechanical eyelid or blinking problems, certain medications such as antihistamines and oral contraceptives, environmental climate changes (low humidity, wind, dust), injury, ocular inflammation, and various systemic health conditions.
Symptoms include:
- Irritated, scratchy, dry, uncomfortable or red eyes
- A burning sensation or feeling of something foreign in your eyes
- Blurred vision
In addition to being uncomfortable, dry eyes can damage the ocular surface, scar the cornea and impair vision. Dry eye is treatable and it can often be controlled before serious harm is done to your eyes.
Treatment can take many forms based on the underlying cause. It may include lifestyle, environment, diet and medication changes as well as various tear replacement and supplementation modalities. Often small temporary plugs may be inserted into the tear ducts in the corners of the eyelids to limit tear drainage. In eyes with severe dry eye related ocular surface disease, surgery may be required.
Schedule an Appointment
To schedule an appointment with Mercer Eye Associates in Lawrenceville, call the office or request an appointment online.