Glaucoma Management & Vision Preservation
Glaucoma is a leading cause of vision loss, often progressing without symptoms until it reaches advanced stages. At Westrum Optometry, we emphasize early detection and proactive care to protect your vision and quality of life.
Our dedicated team combines innovative diagnostic tools, like Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) and Visual Perimeter Imaging, with a patient-centered approach to ensure comprehensive, compassionate care for each patient’s needs.
Risk Factors of Glaucoma
Glaucoma gradually damages the optic nerve, usually because of high intraocular pressure. This pressure can build up without noticeable symptoms, often affecting peripheral vision and, if left untreated, leading to blindness. Key factors that increase glaucoma risk include:
Age: The risk of glaucoma rises significantly after age 40.
Family History: A family history of glaucoma makes it more likely for you to develop it.
Medical Conditions: Health issues like diabetes and high blood pressure contribute to increased glaucoma risk.
Lifestyle Factors: Long-term corticosteroid use or a past eye injury can also increase risk.
Understanding these risk factors and taking preventive steps with regular eye exams is essential to protecting your vision.
Glaucoma Testing & Management in Des Moines
Our advanced glaucoma care uses state-of-the-art technology to diagnose, monitor, and manage glaucoma.
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): This non-invasive imaging test creates detailed retina cross-sections, allowing us to see early changes in the optic and retinal nerve fiber layers. OCT helps us detect glaucoma before it causes visual symptoms.
Visual Perimeter Imaging: This test maps your field of vision, allowing us to identify blind spots or other changes in peripheral vision that glaucoma might cause. By measuring these visual fields regularly, we can monitor how glaucoma may affect your eyesight.
With these diagnostic tools, we gain valuable insights to detect glaucoma early and create a care plan that fits your needs.
Our Comprehensive Treatment Plans for Glaucoma
Managing glaucoma effectively requires a personalized treatment plan, and we offer several options at Westrum Optometry. These treatments may include:
Prescription Eye Drops: Medicated eye drops reduce intraocular pressure by decreasing fluid production or improving fluid drainage in the eye. Eye drops are a common first-line treatment for many glaucoma patients.
Oral Medications: When eye drops alone are insufficient, our eye doctors may sometimes add oral medications to help control eye pressure. These medications work to decrease fluid production in the eye further.
Laser Therapy and Surgical Referrals
For advanced cases, we work closely with trusted specialists. We provide referrals for laser therapy or co-manage care for surgical solutions to lower intraocular pressure and help prevent additional damage.
With a custom treatment plan, we aim to preserve your vision and minimize the impact of glaucoma on your life. We select each option to meet your needs, helping you manage glaucoma effectively.
Education and Ongoing Support for Patients With Glaucoma
We believe that education is essential in managing glaucoma. Our team explains each step of your diagnosis and treatment plan in simple terms. We make sure you understand your condition, your treatment options, and how these steps work to protect your eye health. Regular monitoring is also vital, and we help you stay on track with ongoing checkups to ensure your treatment is effective.
Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge and resources to make confident decisions about your eye care. We’re here to support you every step of the way, answer your questions, and provide the information you need for long-term success in managing glaucoma.
Glaucoma Management?
We combine the latest diagnostic technology with a compassionate approach, ensuring that you receive thorough care. Our team focuses on providing a proactive, patient-centered experience that allows you to feel informed and supported.
We’re Here for Your Family's Vision Needs
Schedule your eye exam!