Why Early Detection is The Best Defense Against Glaucoma

Benjamin Franklin once said, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." While applicable in almost every aspect of life, the quote may be most important for your eye care.

Eye conditions like infections can be mitigated by making wise lifestyle choices, but others, like glaucoma, can occur no matter what you do. Nevertheless, early detection can be the difference between mild symptoms and full vision loss.

In This Article...

1. What are the early signs of glaucoma
2. Why is early detection so important?
3. Is there a cure for glaucoma?
4. What treatment methods are available for the early stages of glaucoma?
5. How do I get started with early glaucoma detection?

What are the early signs of glaucoma?

Glaucoma is often called the "silent thief of sight" because its symptoms may not appear until much later. As a result, early warning signs may not be apparent. For patients with the most common type of glaucoma (open-angle), these signs are:

• Spotty peripheral vision
• Gradually declining central vision

Why is early detection so important?

Even though glaucoma may not cause immediate vision loss, early detection is vital to ensuring the disease does not progress. Routine eye exams can be part of this process along with consultations with a glaucoma specialist.

Once you are diagnosed with glaucoma, your physician can recommend specific treatment options based on your progression.

Is there a cure for glaucoma?

Unfortunately, glaucoma does not have a cure. Your physician will instead provide surgical and non-surgical management options.

What treatment methods are available for the early stages of glaucoma?

Glaucoma treatment focuses on reducing pressure inside the eye that affects the optic nerve. These methods include prescription eye drops, selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT), and minimally invasive glaucoma surgery.

First-line therapy for glaucoma may come in the form of prescription eye drops taken once or twice a day or SLT. The latter treatment helps your body clear the eye's natural drainage channel to reduce pressure, working just as well as drops for first-line therapy. Which treatment is best to try first is based on several factors that can be discussed with your doctor, but in general, both are equally effective options depending on your preference.

In some cases, surgery may be considered for mild cases of glaucoma. This can involve placing microscopic stents into the eye or dilating or opening the eye's natural drainage channel to help remove excess fluid and reduce pressure within the eye. Cataract surgery can also be performed at the same time if you have both conditions.

According to Dr. Paul Chamberlain, a glaucoma specialist at CEENTA Concord and Salisbury, "Managing glaucoma is a team sport. As the physician, I bring knowledge of the different play options, but in the end, which option is chosen and how well it is executed is dependent on the patient as much as it is myself."

How do I get started with early glaucoma detection?

Your first step is to start or maintain your regular eye exams. If your eye doctor refers you to a glaucoma specialist, CEENTA has just what you—and your eyes—need. Our fellowship-trained glaucoma surgeons can determine the severity of your condition and recommend the management method best suited for you.

Schedule your glaucoma appointment with Dr. Chamberlain today by calling 704-295-3000.

This blog is for informational purposes only. For specific medical questions, please consult your physician.