Glaucoma

Glaucoma: is an eye disease in which the internal pressure of the eye is elevated and the optic nerve becomes damaged.  Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness in the U.S.  The exact cause of glaucoma is not known; however, the mechanism is either increase aqueous production or decreased aqueous flow.  This results in a fluid buildup that increases pressure on the optic nerve.  This can result in damage and subsequent vision loss.  Vision loss with glaucoma begins in the periphery and moves in toward the center causing tunnel vision and possible blindness.  Glaucoma should be monitored by your Optometrist and regularly treated with prescription eye drops and in some cases, laser therapy or surgery.