Vision Library
Glaucoma
Glaucoma
Who develops glaucoma?
Glaucoma is fairly common over the age of 35, affecting 3 of every 100 persons. It is the second leading cause of blindness in people over 40. The number of persons affected by glaucoma is expected to rise dramatically as our population of ‘baby-boomers’ age.
What causes glaucoma?
There are several different types of glaucoma. Some types are caused by increased pressure within the eye that destroy the optic nerve, if not treated promptly. A constant level of liquid called the aqueous humor is maintained in the inner chamber of the eye. Fluid flows into the eye from several structures, and drains from the eye at a spongy outlet located at the angle where the cornea and sclera meet. If the outlet is clogged or the drainage system is overwhelmed by too much liquid production, a buildup of fluid occurs and causes a pressure increase inside the eyeball. This places pressure on the optic nerve and its blood supply that can cause serious irreversible damage. Eye injury, tumor, hemorrhage, or infection can cause a blockage in the drainage system (and the resulting increase pressure).
What are the symptoms of glaucoma?
In most cases there are no symptoms.
Are there different types of glaucoma?
Yes there are many different kinds of glaucoma, but there are two major types: chronic and acute.
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How is glaucoma diagnosed?
Prevention involves early detection through a comprehensive eye health examination especially after age 35. Sometimes the level of pressure may be normal, yet there are no symptoms, so an eye examination is the only way to discover the problem. An instrument called a tonometer is used to measure the pressure of the eye. The optic nerve is assessed by a procedure called ophthalmoscopy, which uses specialized equipment to look inside the eye. A visual field analyzer checks for blind spots in the field of vision.
Who develops glaucoma?
People with a family history are more likely to develop the problem, as are those who are nearsighted. Some diseases that impact the entire body, such as diabetes, anemia, or hardening of the arteries increase the risk of developing the condition.
How is glaucoma treated?
The primary form of treatment is still medication. These medications either increase the drainage of fluid or decrease the production of fluid to lower the pressure within the eye. Laser surgery is also a treatment in some cases as is specialized microsurgery. The goal of glaucoma treatment is to prevent further damage and to preserve the highest possible level of vision.
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31 First Street
Orangeville, Ontario
L9W 2C8
P: (519) 941-6761
E: info@orangevilleoptometrists.ca
Our office is wheelchair accessible.
Mon-Fri: 9:00am - 6:00pm
Sat: 9:00am - 1:00pm
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Dear Patients,
Please be advised of some of the changes we have implemented to keep you safe while you visit us during this COVID-19 pandemic.
Safety is priority here at Orangeville Optometric Centre. Here are some of the measures we have included:
• All patients will be fully screened for symptoms / travel history, contact history etc.
• A telephone interview will be conducted the day before your visit to minimize the amount of time spent in the office.
• Separate exits and entrances to ensure no cross contamination.
• Staff will be wearing full Personal Protective Equipment.
• Patients will be required to wear a face mask at all times.
• Increased deep cleaning and sanitizing all surfaces after every patient interaction.
• Physical distancing observed.
• Reduced patient volumes to enhance patient safety.
• Patients are requested to wait in their car and enter only when instructed by our support staff.
• Requesting patients enter the building alone and have their driver or companion wait in their car. Exceptions will be made for those who need assistance.
• All doctors and staff health status will be monitored on a daily basis.
This COVID-19 situation presents an enormous challenge to us all. Working together is the best way to weather this crisis.
Please be advised that the above measures may change as the regional and provincial authorities require us.
Sincerely,
Jack DiBerardino BSc OD