Boothe Eye Care Discusses Lasik & Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a state in which optic nerve of the eye is damaged. This damage of the optic nerve can cause permanent blindness to the individual. But early detection along with proper treatment can protect the eyes from permanent blindness. The optic nerve consists of over 1 million nerve linking the retina and brain. For good vision, your optic nerve should be healthy. According to several scientific studies, damage of the optic nerve is caused by high eye pressure.
As the fluid passes through the eyes, pressure increases and may cause the optic nerve to become damaged. The increased pressure can result in permanent loss of vision. Controlling eye pressure is very important to avoid glaucoma. Blood pressure can also cause optic nerve damage.
It is not certain that people with high eye pressure will develop glaucoma as some individuals have a higher tolerance to eye pressure than others. The occurrence of glaucoma also depends on the tolerance of optic nerve on eye pressure. Patients must undergo a dilated eye checkup that helps the doctor understand if your eye pressure is unsual. Glaucoma can be developed by any individual. Those who are at high risk of developing glaucoma are:
a) Individuals with a family history of glaucoma
b) African Americans above the age of 40
c) Individuals above the age of 60, particularly Mexican Americans.
Dr. Boothe of Boothe Eye Care will recommend comprehensive dilated eye tests to detect glaucoma. The comprehensive dilated eye tests consists of the visual field test, visual acuity test, dilated eye exam, tonometry, and pachymetry. There are two main types – open angle glaucoma and angle closure glaucoma. In open angle glaucoma, the blindness is caused gradually so it will not be detected until it is too late. No blockage can be seen on the drainage canals in the initial stage of open angle glaucoma, but in a later stage you can find blockages. The drainage will be completely blocked in angle closure glaucoma and patients may develop symptoms such as headaches, blurred vision, eye pain, and nausea.
There are three types of treatments for glaucoma such as medical, surgical, and laser treatment. Medical treatment is performed by applying eye drops at the primary stage to reduce the intraocular pressure. Surgical procedure is done only on individuals who could not achieve the positive results even after eye drops and LASIK. LASIK is an important treatment for patients with glaucoma. Dr. Boothe is an experienced doctor who will help to cure your glaucoma using LASIK eye procedure. Read reviews from actual patients who have underdone Lasik with Dr. Boothe