What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness in the United States. It occurs when fluid within the eye does not drain properly, causing pressure to build on the optic nerve. If left untreated this pressure can cause irreversible damage to critical optic nerve tissue, eventually destroying it and causing the permanent loss of vision. And while there is no cure for glaucoma yet, there are treatments that can help you maintain your vision and your quality of life.
The Four Types of Glaucoma
- Chronic Open Angle Glaucoma is the most common form of the disease. Vision loss is painless, but permanent.
- Acute Glaucoma is sudden and very painful. Laser surgery is usually required immediately to relieve the pressure. Fortunately, a routine eye exam can detect whether a patient is prone to this form of the disease.
- Congenital Glaucoma is present at birth. Though rare, Dr. Bowden has extensive experience with this form of the disease.
- Secondary Glaucoma occurs as a result of a systemic disease such as diabetes, steroid use or previous trauma.
- African Americans, who are five times more likely to develop the disease
- Those over 40; risk increases with age
- People with high blood pressure
- Diabetics
- People with a family history of the disease
- Anyone who has suffered an eye injury
Bowden Eye Associates has helped thousands of patients affected with glaucoma battle the disease, retain their sight and maintain the highest quality of life possible. The breakthrough diagnostic and treatment modalities we employ have established Bowden Eye Associates as one the premiere center for glaucoma treatment in Jacksonville and Orange Park.
Know the Risks
Because there are no symptoms in its early stages, many of the four million American with glaucoma are unaware of it until it is too late. However, with regular eye examinations, it can be easily diagnosed and treated. Those with increased risk include:
Preserve and protect your gift of sight. To schedule a consultation with a physician at Bowden Eye Associates to discuss your risk of glaucoma, click here or contact one of our offices (904)296-0098.
Common Questions About Glaucoma
As a convenient resource for our patients, we’ve listed the most frequently asked questions and answers about glaucoma. We hope you’ll find them helpful and informative. To answer any questions you may not find here, please call (904) 296-0098 to speak with Bowden Eye Counselor or contact us online.
