If you’ve ever had that infamous “air puff” test during an eye exam, then you’ve been tested for glaucoma.
Glaucoma is a term used to describe a group of eye diseases that cause progressive damage to the optic nerve, which can lead to irrecoverable vision loss.
Many forms of this eye disease progress quietly and present no symptoms until significant damage has taken place. Later stages of glaucoma can present with symptoms like:
Let’s talk first about the aqueous humor. This clear fluid is contained in the front part of your eye and is responsible for providing nourishment keeping it inflated. The eye is constantly producing new aqueous humor while draining an equal amount through the drainage angle between the cornea and the iris.
When this balance of new fluid and drained fluid is compromised, the pressure inside the eyes increases and, for reasons not entirely known, leads to optic nerve damage and glaucoma.
However, not all cases of increased eye pressure lead to glaucoma, and not all cases of glaucoma are related to increased eye pressure.
There are several types of glaucoma, each with its own causes and treatment options.
Primary open-angle glaucoma is the most common form of this eye disease. It progresses slowly and painlessly and leads to optic nerve damage and permanent vision loss.
Theories suggest that optic nerve damage results from a lack of blood flow to the area or by internal eye pressure and fluid build-up caused by the inefficiency of the eye’s drainage system.
Angle-closure glaucoma is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention to avoid permanent vision loss. Symptoms include:
A less-common form of glaucoma, angle-closure glaucoma occurs when the drainage angle closes or becomes blocked, resulting in an abrupt build-up of fluid and increased eye pressure and a sudden onset of symptoms. To prevent eye damage and vision loss, contact your optometrist immediately.
Secondary glaucoma occurs as a result of injury, various medical conditions, medications, or eye abnormalities.
Normal-tension glaucoma results in optic nerve damage even though the eye’s internal pressure remains within the normal range.
Why this happens isn’t known, although it’s thought that those who develop this type of glaucoma have unusually sensitive optic nerves or reduced blood flow.
Anyone can develop glaucoma; however, you may be at risk if you:
Early detection, immediate treatment, life-long management, and regular monitoring is essential for protecting your eyes and vision after a glaucoma diagnosis. Glaucoma can only be diagnosed during a comprehensive eye exam, especially before symptoms develop.
There is no cure for glaucoma, and treatment involves controlling internal eye pressure with eye drops, oral medications, or surgery.
Our office is conveniently located off South Orange Blossom Trail heading South, across from Big Lot’s. Our building has ample parking and is walking distance from the Route 106 bus stop.
This is hands down the best optometrist and staff I have ever encountered. They are professional, friendly, and thorough. Dr. Goodhue is incredible. I had questions for the doctor two different times and he called me back and helped me over the phone. I highly recommend this place!
I’ve been going to Optical Eyeland for the past 3 years. Every time I walk through the door I’m greeted with a smile. The staff are welcoming and kind. I never struggle to find frames that I love. Their opticians are knowledgeable and eager to assist the perfect fit. They always follow up to make sure things are ok. I recommend this place to all of my family and friends! It is absolutely the best. 😎
Excellent, highly recommended. I never had a problem with my prescription and the last time I went there my contacts were ready the very next day, Julie is amazing always with a smile and a positive attitude and she makes sure the patients are well taken care of. I love this place.
Dr. Kevin Goodhue was AWESOME! He was friendly, kind, professional, knowledgeable, honest & genuine. He was happy to tell me I have good vision & did not try to sell me on anything I didn’t need. The staff was very welcoming & friendly. The office was clean & the hours were convenient. I felt like I was treated like family & would recommend this practice to anyone looking for a knowledgeable, honest eye doctor!
I went to see Dr. Kevin Goodhue for the first time, due to having a lot of pain in my right eye. I felt that something had gotten under my eyelid. Was not able to sleep the whole night because of the discomfort, my head was pounding, i had tried hot compresses, had washed my eyes with water and tried putting drops as well. Nothing worked. As soon as i saw him he was able to help me remove what had gotten under my eyelid and now i have so much relief. I highly recommend this doctor. Excellent service too!
Optical Eyeland
