An eye disease that first begins by the early loss of side vision. Glaucoma is common over the age of 35, affecting 2 out of 100 people.

There are several risk factors for glaucoma such as high pressure in the eye, age, diabetes, sleep apnea, a positive family history and African Americans.

Most patients are diagnosed with glaucoma during a routine eye examination as most glaucoma has no pain associated with it. Prevention and early detection through a comprehensive annual eye examination is the best protection from losing vision from glaucoma. During a comprehensive examination, the intraocular pressure is determined, visual field examined and optic nerve evaluated. Also, a thorough case history is taken to determine other risk factors for glaucoma.

Once diagnosed, any damage to the optic nerve cannot be reversed. The goal of glaucoma treatment is to prevent further damage and to preserve the highest possible level of vision. Glaucoma is treated by reducing the pressure inside the eye, with medication and or surgery.