Glaucoma

Glaucoma Information & Treatment

Glaucoma is an eye condition that develops when too much fluid pressure builds up inside the eye, damaging the optic nerve. Glaucoma’s pressure-induced damage to the optic nerve prevents the brain from receiving images from the eye, resulting in vision loss. While glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness in America, more than half of the two million Americans with the disease are unaware they have the condition, as it is typically asymptomatic.

The first sign of glaucoma is often the loss of peripheral or side vision, which can go unnoticed until late in the disease. Certain groups face an increased risk of glaucoma, including:

• African Americans over age 40
• People over age 60, especially Mexican Americans
• People with a family history of glaucoma

Detecting glaucoma early is one reason to have a complete exam with Dr. Ceravolo every 1 to 2 years. Early detection is key to effective treatment.

What If I Am Diagnosed with Glaucoma?

For patients diagnosed with glaucoma, a comprehensive treatment plan is crucial to preserve their current level of vision, i.e., to prevent further peripheral and sometimes central vision loss. Your glaucoma treatment plan will be tailored to your diagnosis, based on the type and progression of your condition. Dr. Ceravolo uses a comprehensive treatment plan including specialized eye drops, laser surgery, and microsurgery.

After you begin your treatment regimen, Dr. Ceravolo will monitor your condition with appointments at varying intervals, typically two to four times a year, including pressure measurements, optic nerve evaluations, and visual field testing. In some cases, despite the most meticulous care and aggressive management, patients will continue to lose vision. However, in most cases, when patients are diagnosed early in the course of their disease and are compliant with Dr. Ceravolo’s treatment schedule, useful vision can be maintained.