Glaucoma is a progressive eye condition that damages the optic nerves. It worsens with time, if not treated, with the possibility of permanent vision loss. Thankfully, glaucoma is manageable when you visit an optometrist early. If you or your loved one suffers from glaucoma, visit ClearView Eyecare in Bellingham for an eye exam and treatment. We are a full-service eye care provider dedicated to caring, treating, and keeping you informed.

What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a collective term for multiple eye conditions that damage an eye's optic nerve. The optic nerve plays a vital role in providing vision and sending images from the eye to the brain. Glaucoma happens when fluid builds up in your eye and exerts pressure, damaging the optic nerve.

What Causes Glaucoma?

The exact cause of glaucoma remains unknown, but multiple risk factors exist. Common risk factors for glaucoma include previous eye surgery, family history, high blood pressure, diabetes, and genetic factors. Underlying health issues like diabetes, advanced cataracts, and eye tumors may increase the chances of developing glaucoma.

Is There Only One Type of Glaucoma?

There are four main types of glaucoma.

• Open-angle glaucoma: It develops slowly and the patient may not know. Most people with this type don’t go for glaucoma treatment until permanent damage has already occurred.
• Closed-angle glaucoma: It starts suddenly, comes with intense pain, and can cause vision loss if prompt glaucoma treatment is not done.
• Secondary glaucoma: It is caused by medical complications such as hypertension, diabetes, and side effects of various medications.
• Normal glaucoma: It happens when the optic nerve is damaged by excess pressure from eye fluid.

How Is Glaucoma Diagnosed?

An optometrist performs multiple tests to check whether you have glaucoma. These tests include:

• Eye pressure test
• Visual test field
• Optic nerve assessment
• Gonioscopy

An optometrist may take the results for further analysis to know how old the condition is and its possible causes.

Contact ClearView Eyecare in Bellingham, WA

Our team at ClearView Eyecare is committed to helping people manage and preserve their eyesight with quality eye care. We use cutting-edge technology for accurate results and we are ready to help you improve your life through glaucoma testing and treatment. Call our team today at (360) 392 8306 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.