Understanding Glaucoma: Early Detection and Treatment Options

For people in Post Falls, Idaho, where active outdoor lifestyles and screen-heavy workdays are common, eye health is something we don’t always think about—until we have to. But when it comes to glaucoma, waiting until symptoms appear can be too late. Understanding what glaucoma is, how it’s detected, and what treatment options are available can help you take charge of your vision and protect it for years to come.
 

What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, often due to increased pressure in the eye. This pressure, known as intraocular pressure (IOP), can gradually cause irreversible vision loss. The two most common types are:

• Open-Angle Glaucoma – The most common form, where fluid drainage in the eye becomes less efficient over time, leading to a slow, unnoticed loss of peripheral vision.

• Angle-Closure Glaucoma – A less common but more sudden condition where drainage is blocked, causing a rapid rise in eye pressure. This is a medical emergency requiring immediate care.
   

Without treatment, glaucoma can lead to blindness. That’s why routine eye exams are crucial for catching the disease in its earliest stages.
 

How Is Glaucoma Detected?

Glaucoma can take years to show noticeable symptoms, and by the time vision loss is apparent, it’s often permanent. Routine eye exams—especially for those over 40 or with a family history of glaucoma—are essential.
 

Glaucoma screening is a crucial part of a comprehensive eye exam, consisting of several painless tests designed to detect early signs of the disease. Tonometry measures intraocular pressure, while ophthalmoscopy examines the optic nerve for any signs of damage. Perimetry, or a visual field test, checks for blind spots in peripheral vision, and Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) provides a detailed scan of the optic nerve to identify early changes.
 

Treatment Options for Glaucoma

While there is no cure for glaucoma, treatment can slow or prevent further vision loss. The right approach depends on the type and severity of the condition:

• Prescription Eye Drops – Often the first line of defense, these help lower eye pressure by either reducing fluid production or improving drainage.

• Laser Therapy – A non-invasive procedure that enhances fluid drainage, especially for open-angle glaucoma.

• Surgery – In more advanced cases, surgical procedures such as trabeculectomy or shunt implants may be needed to lower eye pressure.
   

Since glaucoma progresses gradually, the goal of treatment is to preserve the vision you have and prevent further loss.
 

Schedule Your Eye Exam with Prism Eye Center Today 

Glaucoma is a silent threat that can gradually steal your vision without warning. The good news is that with early detection and proper management, you can take control of your eye health and protect your sight for years to come. Whether you have a family history of glaucoma or simply want peace of mind, regular eye exams are your first line of defense.
 

Schedule a comprehensive eye exam with Prism Eye Center, and take a proactive step in safeguarding your eyesight from glaucoma. Contact our office in Post Falls, Idaho, by calling (208) 203-7616 to book an appointment today.