Sioux Falls, SD
Glaucoma
Diagnosis & Co-Management
Sioux Falls, SD
Glaucoma Diagnosis & Co-management
Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of permanent vision loss worldwide. This group of eye diseases affects the optic nerve, often due to increased pressure inside the eye, known as intraocular pressure (IOP). Over time, this pressure can cause irreversible damage to the optic nerve, leading to vision loss or blindness if left untreated.
Our experienced optometrists at The Eye Doctors P.C. provide diagnostic services and ongoing management for glaucoma patients. If glaucoma surgery is necessary, we also offer surgery co-management, ensuring a smooth transition from diagnosis to recovery.
Glaucoma diagnosis in Sioux Falls
Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” because it typically progresses without noticeable symptoms until significant damage is done. This is why regular eye exams are essential for early detection—especially if you are at higher risk due to factors like age, family history, or pre-existing eye conditions.
Our eye doctors use advanced diagnostic tools to detect glaucoma early, allowing us to start treatment before serious damage occurs. Some of the key tests we use during your exam include:
Tonometry
This test measures intraocular pressure. Elevated pressure is one of the most common indicators of glaucoma, though it’s not always present in all types of the disease.
Optomap eye exam
This advanced imaging technology captures detailed, wide-field images of the retina, allowing us to monitor the optic nerve and detect early signs of glaucoma. This helps us track changes in your eye health over time.
Visual field test
Glaucoma often causes subtle blind spots in peripheral vision before affecting central vision. A visual field test can identify these early changes, helping us diagnose glaucoma even in its early stages.
Treatment for glaucoma
While there is no cure for glaucoma, early detection and proper management can significantly slow its progression and help preserve your vision. Depending on the type and severity of glaucoma, treatments may include prescription eye drops, laser therapy, or surgery. For advanced cases of glaucoma where medications and laser treatments are not effective, surgery may be required.
Surgery co-management for glaucoma
If surgery becomes necessary to manage your glaucoma, our team will work closely with your eye surgeon to ensure a smooth and coordinated care plan. Surgery co-management means we provide pre-surgery evaluations and ongoing post-surgery care. We will refer you to a glaucoma specialist for the procedure, and then set up follow-up appointments after surgery to ensure you are healing properly.
Schedule a glaucoma exam in Sioux Falls
If you’re concerned about your risk for glaucoma or have been diagnosed with the condition, the earlier you start treatment, the better. Our optometrists provide comprehensive glaucoma care, from early diagnosis to surgery co-management. Contact us today to schedule your glaucoma exam in Sioux Falls.
