OPHTHALMOLOGY

Gregory Eippert, MD

Q: I was recently diagnosed with glaucoma. Although it was caught early and my vision loss is minimal, I am feeling very frustrated and depressed. Do you have any suggestions to help me cope with this life-long condition? A: Glaucoma is a chronic eye disease that can also have emotional and psychological effects. When first diagnosed with this long-term, sight-threatening condition, common reactions include fear, helplessness, worry, depression, or lethargy. The good news is that glaucoma, when detected early, can usually be treated and managed. As a newly diagnosed glaucoma patient, establishing a good working relationship with your eye doctor will be of primary importance. Your eye doctor will perform baseline testing that will allow for comparisons over time as well as establish a continuing care plan specific to your needs. Routine testing, follow-ups, and regular treatment as recommended are essential components to managing glaucoma. Another recommendation is to learn about glaucoma and ask questions. Other positive ways to help manage glaucoma include keeping a detailed record of both your eye and general medications; scheduling your next eye checkup before you leave the doctor’s office and putting it on your calendar; and taking care of the rest of your body because keeping in good general health is just as important as taking care of your eyes. As a glaucoma patient, you are in a unique position to teach your friends and relatives about this disease. Many people are unaware of the importance of regular eye exams and that individuals with glaucoma may have no symptoms. You can help protect their eye health by encouraging them to have their eye pressure and optic nerves checked regularly. If low vision is or becomes an issue, there are a variety of products and resources to help people with low vision learn how to continue leading an active life. Gregory Eippert, MD 9485 Mentor Ave., #110, Mentor 44060 440-255-1115 www.opivision.com