Glaucoma is a debilitating group of eye diseases that can result in vision loss and blindness due to damage to the eye’s optic nerve. African Americans over the age of 40, men and women over the age of 60, and those with a family history of glaucoma are at especially high risk of gradually losing their vision to glaucoma if it is not detected and treated early. Even if you have strong eye health now, learning these three key facts about glaucoma could help you save your vision in the future.
It’s All About Eye Pressure
The front of the eye contains a space called the anterior chamber. A clear fluid is meant to flow continuously in and out of this chamber to nourish nearby tissue. However, in people with glaucoma, the fluid does not drain out as quickly as it needs to. Instead, the clear fluid builds up just like water trying to go down a clogged sink. This buildup creates pressure inside of the eye that is at risk of rising high enough to damage the optic nerve. It is for this reason that controlling pressure inside of the eye should always remain a top priority; once your optic nerve becomes damaged, your vision as a whole is severely threatened.
You Might Be At Higher Risk
Certain people are at higher risk of developing glaucoma than others. Those at highest risk include people with a family history of glaucoma, all people over the age of 60, and African Americans over the age of 40. If you fall into any of these categories, a comprehensive dilated eye exam has the potential to save your vision. That type of exam can reveal risk factors and signs of glaucoma so you can begin treatments before any vision damage occurs.
There Is a Solution!
The Xen45 is a new surgical option for patients who have received previous glaucoma treatments without any successful results. It consists of a soft, incredibly narrow stent derived from collagen, as well as a preloaded injector. The stent is implanted into the eye using the preloaded injector through an incision in the cornea. Once implanted into the eye, the Xen45 relieves pressure by creating a new pathway for aqueous flow to a safer and more productive space within the eye. Using this treatment method, you have the ability to minimize your reliance on drugs and eyedrops.
At The Eye Clinic of Florida, Dr. Ahad Mahootchi specializes in state-of-the-art glaucoma treatments like the Xen45 to help patients overcome their worst glaucoma symptoms and maintain strong eyesight. Call (813) 779-333 to make an appointment to save your vision.