The Problem
Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness worldwide that is significantly under-diagnosed.
The Solution
Early detection and monitoring of glaucoma progression is critical to prevent damage to the optic nerve and minimize vision loss.
The Way Forward
1. Educate patients about risk factors, comprehensive eye exams, and healthy habits that may help prevent glaucoma.
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2. Refer early to a glaucoma specialist or comprehensive ophthalmologist
Be aware of clinical features suggesting more rapidly progressive disease:
- Presence of optic disc hemorrhage or progressive excavation of the neuroretinal rim tissues
- Progressive nerve fiber layer thinning on serial optical coherence tomography testing
- Progressive reduction of retinal sensitivity on serial visual field testing that cannot be attributable to other causes like cataract
Keep in mind that glaucoma can occur at eye pressures above 20 AND with eye pressures within the statistically normal range.
3. Treat the whole person. Vision rehabilitation can help patients with any degree of vision impairment.
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Learn more at masseyeandear.org/glaucoma