Glaucoma Care & Management in British Columbia

Support & Assistance in Cowichan Valley

There are different types of glaucoma, but the most common form is primary open-angle glaucoma. This occurs when the drainage canals inside the eye become blocked, causing the aqueous fluid to build up, which eventually damages the optic nerve

Protect Your Vision

Early Detection is Vital

Arguably the most disturbing aspect of glaucoma is the fact that it rarely exhibits warning signs or early symptoms. Generally, individuals who develop glaucoma don’t realize something is wrong until vision loss has already occurred. Peripheral vision is the first to be affected, and without proper treatment, glaucoma can lead to partial vision loss or even blindness.

Because the stakes are so high when it comes to glaucoma, an early-stage diagnosis is vital early-stage diagnosis is vital. Fortunately, your optometrist can detect glaucoma before vision loss begins, and can create a tailored treatment plan to slow its progression and preserve your vision.

Treatment Options

Medication & Surgery

Because high intraocular pressure is the most common cause of glaucoma, most glaucoma treatments aim to reduce the pressure within the eye, so the optic nerve doesn’t become increasingly damaged. However, it is important to note any damage that occurs is permanent.

Generally speaking, the first line of defence in treatment is medicated eye drops. These must be used as directed, with most types requiring daily use. Different prescription eye drops treat glaucoma in different ways: some may reduce the amount of intraocular fluid the eye produces, while others may act on the drainage canals to help them drain fluid more quickly.

Surgery is another option in the treatment of glaucoma. Surgical treatments include laser surgery, implanting drainage devices, and other methods that can reduce intraocular pressure.

How Can Cowichan Eyecare Help?

Your optometrist at Cowichan Eyecare will help you manage your eye health and determine the best treatment option for you based on the root cause of your glaucoma and other factors. We will closely monitor the progression of your glaucoma so that we can treat it as effectively as possible.

To help safeguard your vision against serious conditions such as glaucoma, you should undergo a comprehensive eye exam at least once per year.

Cowichan Eyecare can also manage your glaucoma care through the Care1 network.

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