Glaucoma is the second-most common cause of blindness worldwide. Ophthalmologist Roger Furlong, MD, specializes in treating glaucoma at Rocky Mountain Eye Center locations in Missoula, Hamilton, and Butte, Montana. Early diagnosis is the best way to slow or prevent vision loss from glaucoma, so call or book an appointment online today.
The eye diseases that encompass glaucoma cause damage to your optic nerve. This damage usually occurs when fluid builds up and increases the pressure in your eye. Without treatment, glaucoma causes progressive vision loss and eventual blindness.
The two major types of glaucoma include:
You should call Rocky Mountain Eye Center immediately if you experience these symptoms.
At Rocky Mountain Eye Center, Dr. Furlong performs numerous tests to evaluate and monitor glaucoma. Depending on your needs, testing for glaucoma may include:
Dr. Furlong may also take imaging tests to detect or monitor changes in your optic nerve or optic disc. These include optical coherence tomography, which scans your optic nerve, and optic disc photos.
Treatment cannot reverse eye damage from glaucoma. However, regular checkups and early treatment at Rocky Mountain Eye Center can help slow the progression of the disease and even prevent vision loss.
The first line of treatment typically involves prescription eye drops, which help reduce eye pressure. Other treatments include laser therapy and surgical procedures, such as:
For early diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma, call Rocky Mountain Eye Center or book an appointment online today.