Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a potentially serious eye condition that negatively affects the optic nerve within the eye. Over time, glaucoma can worsen and lead to a range of associated problems including vision loss and even blindness.
Particularly common in those over the age of 40 or those who suffer from diabetes or cardiovascular problems, glaucoma results when fluid builds up and applies additional pressure on the eye or eyes. Those who have high blood pressure, or those who have recently suffered a concussion or been affected by various forms of eye trauma are also at higher risk of developing the condition.
It is especially important to catch and treat cases of glaucoma right away, because unlike many common eye conditions and problems, glaucoma can only be treated if caught early on. Once the condition progresses to the point where you experience vision loss or blindness, there are no longer effective treatment methods of available.
Undergoing regular, comprehensive eye exams with your eye doctor greatly reduces your likelihood of developing glaucoma or glaucoma-related vision problems and blindness. If your eye doctor uncovers early-onset glaucoma, several treatment methods exist to help minimize its impact. Many sufferers undergo laser surgery, while others rely on eye drops to help ensure their vision loss doesn’t progress any further.