OPHTHALMOLOGY

Q: At my last eye exam, my eye doctor told me that I am a glaucoma suspect. What exactly does this mean? Should I be concerned since my next exam isn’t until next year? A: A glaucoma suspect is someone whose eyes show a risk for glaucoma but there is not yet any proven or noticeable damage. Glaucoma, the second leading cause of blindness in the world, has few or no symptoms until noticeable vison loss occurs. While the majority of suspects may never develop glaucoma, once vision is lost it cannot be restored, therefore the objective is to determine whom to treat among glaucoma suspects. Indications that one may be considered a glaucoma suspect include, but are not limited to, to elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), a family history of glaucoma, atypical optic nerves, visual field changes, corticosteroid use (especially eye drops), certain eye conditions such as nearsightedness or thin corneas, increasing age, and ethnic background. Glaucoma suspects should have a baseline dilated exam that will allow for comparisons over time. During this exam, several items are evaluated including visual acuity, pupils, IOP, corneal thickness, the drainage angle, and the front and back of the eye. In addition, baseline visual field testing and/or optic nerve imaging (OCT) are done to effectively and objectively assess the optic nerve. Once baseline information is obtained, periodic follow-up visits, yearly or more often as recommended, are necessary to see if there are any changes to the appearance of the optic nerve, visual field, OCT, or the IOP.

The most important ‘treatment’ for a glaucoma suspect is follow-up care. Work closely with your eye doctor to determine the best option, treatment or observation, to meet your needs as a glaucoma suspect. The good news is that if glaucoma treatment is needed and begins early when there is little or no damage to the optic nerve, the risk of serious vision loss is quite small.

Gregory Eippert, MD

9485 Mentor Ave., #110, Mentor 44060 440-255-1115 www.opivision.com