2330 N Amidon Ave, Wichita, KS 67204

(316) 942-7496

2635 W Douglas Ave, Wichita, KS 67213

(316) 942-7496

415 SE Louis Dr, Mulvane, KS 67110

(316) 942-7496

8150 E Douglas Ave Ste 50, Wichita, KS 67206

(316) 942-7496

Wichita Optometry P.A.

(316) 942-7496

Glaucoma FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions about Glaucoma at Wichita Optometry

In the world of eye disorders and diseases, certain conditions stand out as particularly dangerous to your eyesight and glaucoma is just such a condition. If you're concerned about protecting your vision against this common condition, which can cause blindness, you need to arm yourself with as much information as possible. Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions about glaucoma here at Wichita Optometry in Wichita.

Glaucoma

What Kind of Disease Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is not one specific disease but rather a family of diseases and disorders can that destroy the optic nerves. The optic nerves are the bundles of nerve fibers that transmit data from the retinas to the vision center of the brain.

How Does Glaucoma Damage the Eyes?

Most cases are related to high internal fluid pressure. The eye continuously produces a fluid which must be drained through a drainage mesh. If the drainage mesh isn't doing its job, the increased fluid pressure causes permanent damage to the optic nerve.

Who Is at Risk for Glaucoma?

Glaucoma can strike at any age, but your risk increases after age 40. Previous eye injury or surgery, high blood pressure, extreme myopia (nearsightedness), diabetes, and a family history of glaucoma also contribute to glaucoma risk.

What Are the Symptoms of Glaucoma?

The most common type of glaucoma, open-angle glaucoma, progresses so slowly that you may not even notice a reduction in vision for years. This is why regular eye exams are so critical for catching the disease early. But some people develop angle-closure glaucoma, an emergency condition that causes sudden vision loss as well as nausea, headaches, and eye pain.

How Does Your Optometry Clinic Detect Glaucoma?

Our optometry team regularly screens for glaucoma as part of a routine comprehensive eye and vision exam. We can use sophisticated tonometry equipment to check your internal eye pressure for any warning signs of possible glaucoma. We also look inside the eyes to inspect the optic nerves and test your peripheral vision, which is typically the first part of the visual area to be affected by glaucoma.

How Is Glaucoma Treated?

Early treatment of glaucoma can slow or arrest the progress of optic nerve damage, saving your vision. Most cases can be treated with oral or topical medications that help normalize internal eye pressure. If necessary, we can also refer you for a painless outpatient laser surgery that improves eye drainage.

Learn More and Schedule an Exam at Wichita Optometry

Get all the answers to your glaucoma concerns, starting with an eye exam at Wichita Optometry in Wichita, Kansas. Call (316) 942-7496 to schedule your evaluation!