Glaucoma is a progressive disease of the optic nerve that is a leading cause of blindness in this country. Early in the disease there are no symptoms, so regular annual eye exams are needed to monitor its progression. In the majority of patients with glaucoma, the pressure inside the eye is elevated. With early detection and treatment, vision loss and blindness from glaucoma can be prevented.
Elevated intraocular pressure, advancing age, African ancestry, family history, history of ocular injury, extreme nearsightedness and chronic use of corticosteroid medicines are the major risk factors. Diabetes and high blood pressure are minor risk factors.
There are several different types of glaucoma, all of which have progressive optic nerve injury and visual field loss in common. Your ophthalmologist examine you and determine which type of glaucoma you have and discuss treatments options that are best for you.
If you suffer from glaucoma, we can provide the care needed to treat your eye condition. Dr. Novak has treated patients with glaucoma for over 30 years and provides comprehensive medical and surgical management for all types of glaucoma.