Glaucoma is a condition that occurs when fluid begins to build up within the eye, and as a result pressure in the eye increases. When this progressive condition occurs in dogs it may occur either in one or both eyes, and immediate treatment is necessary to prevent permanent eye damage, blindness, and painful symptoms of the disease.
Symptoms of glaucoma are extremely vague, and many pet owners do not realize that their dog is suffering from the condition until it is at an advanced stage. However, subtle changes to the dog’s eyes can provide an early warning that glaucoma is present.
Glaucoma in dogs is diagnosed through a physical examination of the eyes. Specific instruments are used to determine the pressure levels within the eyes and, if necessary, advanced tools and diagnostics are used to determine how much damage to the eye(s) have occurred.
Treatment of glaucoma in dogs involves addressing the cause of the glaucoma and diagnosing what type of glaucoma has occurred either through a response to treatment or through the use of diagnostic tools. Treatments for glaucoma involve prescribed eye medications or surgery.