What is Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a group of diseases of the optic nerve involving loss of retinal ganglion cells in a characteristic pattern of optic neuropathy. Although raised intraocular pressure is...
Join Now
|
Newbe to this new glaucoma world
|
Watch this |
| View More Posts Ignore |
Was recently diagnosed last week with glaucoma in both eyes. I go back
in a week to do another visual field/compare digital retina photos taken during last weeks visit. Three years ago I had cataract surgery but my visual field exams each year indicate spots in my periphael vision so I was sent to see the glaucoma specialist last week. He is going to sit down with me next week and compare the digital photos taken prior to cataract surgery with the ones taken last week and set up a treatment plan. From what I have read on internet two primary areas of treatment are possible, eyedrops and surgery (shunts) Cataract durgery did not lower my eye pressure. Two possible causes for the glaucoma...high blood pressure since age 23 (begain in Vietnam) until today at age 60..I also was put on a steroid regihm by a doctor in 2003 which lasted for 2 years for menieres disease. Perhaps i should sue the doctor (I know he caused the cataract surgery)...but that wouldn't solve anything, just make me richer.. What should I expect and what questions should I ask the doctor? these are what I have found on internet that might be helpful: --central corneal thickness -open angle vs closed angle glaucoma? -Are my eye drainage canals working ok? -sunglasses types or will my eyes get worse driving at night? -Do the eyedrops sting? I know you folks are well versed with this disease but I am only learning, guess the difference in the digital photos will indicate how much it has progressed.. Please provide any insight from your experience and let me know what to expect..Know you are lucky to get 5 minutes of these specialist time and need to have my questions written down.. thanks in advance James Posted on 07/20/09, 11:07 pm |
| 4 Replies | Add Your Advice |
| View More Posts Ignore |
If your dr prescibes Lumigan, ask him the probability that it will cause blindness. All medicines have risks. Are you sure you want to try another one? 
|
|
|
|
||
| View More Posts Ignore |
understand, I thought Lumigan was milder than xatalan and
more easily tolerated. I didn't want a medicine that burns my eyes. Does the carrot juice you recommend really help? How much per day is required? thanks for reply James
|
|
|
|
||
| View More Posts Ignore |
First, thank you for your service in Vietnam. I see you've been told about carrot juice which, I'm sure, is good for the eyes. Please though realize that solid medical therapy is necessary for glaucoma. This generally consists of medicated eyedrops. Sometimes, laser treatment is also an option. I'm glad that you're under the care of a glaucoma specialist. As you know, increased pressure on the optic nerve can damage it and cause blindness. You will probably be given a full explanation of what to expect when you see the specialist to set up a treatment plan. I was given a booklet which explained so much and answered many of my questions. I wish you well.
|
|
|
|
||
| View More Posts Ignore |
Thank you for your advice and thoughtfulness.
|
|
|
|
||
| Add Your Advice |
