Glaucoma

Glaucoma unfortunately steals the vision of thousands of people every year. Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness in people over 40. However, if glaucoma is diagnosed early, before it has done major damage to the optic nerve, it can be treated. This can prevent vision loss. Damage that has already taken place, however, cannot be reversed. That’s why early detection is so important in treating glaucoma. The onset of glaucoma usually occurs at age 35 or older. Two out of every 100 people in this age group have vision threatened by this disease.

Diagnosing Glaucoma

There are many tests available to assist in diagnosing glaucoma, or monitoring for possible progression of the condition. The St. Louis Eye Institute employs the latest state-of-the-art glaucoma detection technology available. Visual field testing, digital photos of the optic nerves, pachymetry, OCT nerve fiber layer analysis, and electrophysiologic testing are all used to aid in diagnosing glaucoma before vision loss has occurred.

Treatment

At the St. Louis Eye Institute, we use advanced testing equipment to detect glaucoma by testing the pressure of your eye along with testing visual acuity and visual field. It is advised to have regular routine eye exams to detect any changes in your eyesight and determine whether glaucoma has developed in your eye(s).

Treatment to control the disease of glaucoma is critical and includes medications in the form of eye drops or pills, laser surgery and conventional surgery. Once glaucoma is diagnosed, treatment should begin immediately. The best treatment for your individual case will depend on the type and the severity of the disease, which can be discussed during your appointment with Dr. Fedyk.