Your eye’s retina has specialized cells called ganglion cells. They are the only cells that communicate with your brain to help you see. Losing ganglion cells weakens the optic nerve and can lead to glaucoma. Over 90 percent of glaucoma cases in the United States are open-angle glaucoma, which progressively affects your vision from the side before impairing central vision.
Although receiving a diagnosis can be scary, there are treatment options available. At the Eye Care Institute, our dedicated team of eye doctors is here to help.
Symptoms of Open-Angle Glaucoma
Open-angle glaucoma can be caused by increased pressure in your eye, which blocks signals to the optic nerve and impacts vision. There are generally no symptoms early in the disease, but many people will eventually notice patchy spots in their vision and reduced side vision (peripheral vision).
Over time, glaucoma causes your eye to lose nerve tissue. At that point, people might gradually lose peripheral vision — they develop “tunnel vision,” which means they can only see straight ahead.
In most cases, your eye doctor finds glaucoma during regular eye exams. However, pressure and damage to the optic nerve are only clues as to whether you might have glaucoma. Some people have elevated intraocular pressure but do not have glaucoma. Some research suggests that people with diabetes may also have an increased risk of developing glaucoma.
How Do You Treat Open-Angle Glaucoma?
Lowering intraocular pressure may help preserve your vision. It is important to see an eye doctor as soon as you notice vision changes, as glaucoma can advance and cause permanent damage.
Eye drops, drainage tubes, laser therapy, and lifestyle modifications are all potential treatment options. We will recommend the best care for your condition depending on your individual needs, abilities, and the severity of your glaucoma.
Through minimally invasive open-angle glaucoma surgery, we can lower pressure in a patient’s eyes and often improve their vision and prevent future impairments.
Seek Glaucoma Treatment in Santa Rosa, CA
At the Eye Care Institute, our dedicated team of doctors provides comprehensive care for patients at every stage of glaucoma. Please click here to schedule an appointment. If you have any questions about our services, please call 707-546-9800 or send us a message.