What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a serious condition that can result in permanent vision loss if not treated. It is a disease that affects millions of Americans. Glaucoma is a type of damage to the optic nerve, which results in a characteristic loss of the nerve fibers that send the visual signal from your retina to your brain, most often due to elevated fluid pressure inside your eye. Once this damage occurs, it cannot be undone. However, if effective treatment is initiated, this process can be halted, and further damage (and visual loss) can be prevented.

Should I be Checked for Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is known to be more common with increasing age, and it may be ten times more common in patients who have a close relative with glaucoma. Because glaucoma usually has no symptoms until it becomes advanced, the best way to catch it early is to have regular, thorough eye exams by a trained professional. If you have been told that you either have or might have glaucoma, or if you simply would like to be checked for it, call our office to schedule an evaluation.

Glaucoma Evaluation

A glaucoma evaluation consists of a thorough eye exam, with special attention paid to your eye pressures, your fluid drainage system, and your optic nerves. It also may require performing a visual field test to map out your peripheral vision, as well as a scan of your optic nerves to quantify any degree of damage. At Eye Center of Grand Rapids, we have state-of-the-art testing and imaging technology that is used to provide the best possible information about the health of your eyes. At the conclusion of your visit, you will receive our expert recommendations, and a report will be sent to your other doctor(s).