Who is at Risk for Glaucoma?

Factors that increase a person’s risk generally include:

· Increased Intraocular Pressure (IOP) – Anyone who has been found to have an elevated intraocular pressure at a glaucoma screening or as part of a general eye examination is considered to be at risk for developing glaucoma.

· Increasing Age – The incidence of glaucoma increases as we get older. Typically the incidence of glaucoma becomes much more noticeable above the age of 40 years old. This is why routine eye examinations with glaucoma evaluation are recommended every 2 years above the age of 40, if there is no other family or medical history, and more often if there is a preexisting history of glaucoma in the family or other predisposing heath factors.

· Race – People with Africa heritage tend to have certain genetic factors that cause a higher likelihood of developing glaucoma.

· High Blood Pressure – Those patients who are being medically treated for high blood pressure may be at greater risk for glaucoma due to the lowering of the blood pressure within the optic nerve.

· Family History of Glaucoma – Family history of glaucoma is a very significant risk factor. If any other family members have been diagnosed with glaucoma, your risk of developing glaucoma increases considerably. This is particularly true for siblings of glaucoma patients, who have a 5-fold increase in risk for developing glaucoma.

· Diabetes – Anyone being treated for diabetes is considered to be at greater risk for glaucoma due to the general circulation problems associated with diabetes.

· Myopia (nearsightedness) – In general patients who are nearsighted have anatomical features that may increase the risk of glaucoma.

· Long-term Steroid Treatment

· Injury/Trauma To The Eye

Dr. Bergstrom will weigh all of these factors before deciding whether you need treatment for glaucoma, or whether you should be monitored closely as a glaucoma suspect, meaning your risk of developing glaucoma is higher than normal, and you need to have regular eye examinations to detect the early signs of damage to the optic nerve.

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At Bergstrom Eye and Laser Clinic, our goal is to provide the highest quality of care in a compassionate and ethical manner. We believe that vision is one of our most precious gifts.

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I was very impressed by Bergstrom Eye and Laser Clinic from the very moment I scheduled my first appointment. All of the staff treated me with care and professionalism. Each person I had contact with treated my like I was the only patient, which was refreshing. All my questions were answered and I never felt rushed. My vision is near perfect. I wish I would not have worried so much about the surgery. I would never hesitate to recommend Dr. Bergstrom and his staff. 

– MICHELLE WACHALA

My experience was wonderful. I have worn glasses since I was in 4th grade. I just continued to get nearsighted. I couldn’t even see the large neon lights on my alarm clock on my nightstand before my surgery. After surgery I could already tell the difference. I could see without my contact lenses. It is so wonderful to not have to put in my contact to see in the morning. My healing process went well also. I had very little pain and only used drops when my eyes were dry. I would definitely recommend Dr. Bergstrom’s clinic to anyone thinking about Lasik eye surgery.

– Danielle Breuer

There is no better feeling than waking up in the morning and not having to put on my glasses or put in my contact to do everyday activities. Once again, I would like to thank Dr. Bergstrom and his staff on the tremendous job.

– Jon Kapp

I had a very positive experience starting from my inquiring phone calls to the day of my actual surgery. The lady who spoke with me on the phone made it possible for me to be able to get my appointment time sooner than the date she has quoted to me. I had a specific reason to get in sometime sooner in the next 2 weeks because my husband travels and he would be home to be my driver. She strove to accommodate me. I live 80 miles away. The personal service and the Lasik surgery were a very positive experience. Everyone was very kind and patient in answering my questions. I would highly recommend Dr. Bergstrom.

– Judy Westerman

My surgery experience was great. I was taking classes out of town over the summer so I wasn’t sure if I would be able to fit surgery in. The staff at Bergstrom Eye and Laser Clinic, however, was more than helpful in accommodating my schedule. Now that I am back at school at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York, it is great not having to worry about my vision. Thank you Dr. Bergstrom and staff.

– Issac Zimmerman

I've had poor vision since 3rd grade. I was almost a -1300 when I came to see Dr. Bergstrom. I have been told for years by other doctors that my vision was “too bad” and that Lasik surgery was not for me. Dr. Bergstrom and his great staff did a number of tests on me and the final conclusion was I could finally be helped! I had my 1st surgery and 10 diopters were take off which means I was a -1300 and today I am -3.00. In a few months I will have my next procedure done to totally correct my vision. What I appreciate most is the in-depth care from the entire staff. Everyone has been so friendly and has celebrated along with me and I can finally see after almost 40 years of very poor eyesight. Dr. Bergstrom is always willing to see me with dry eye issues or contact lens changes in my eyes in the 1st healing part after my surgery. The aftercare is fantastic and so personable as well. And last, but not least – Teri, you’re the best! Always a smile on your face to share!

– Cindy Seicer

Thanks to Dr. Bergstrom, I was able to have Lasik surgery. Due to my complex medical conditions, no other doctor would dare to perform Lasik on me. Dr. Bergstrom and his staff did a lot of preliminary testing on my eyes free of charge, to insure I was a candidate for a safe and successful outcome. My vision is almost perfect and still improving everyday, just like they had explained to me. It’s amazing and I still can’t believe it at times! I wore glasses for over 35 years and now I can pick out sunglasses. Our children are amazed that Mom can see the alarm clock on her bedside. I am too! Than you Dr. Bergstrom and staff for the freedom my new eyes give me.

– Ronda Smith

I could not be happier with my lasik surgery. The only regret I have is I wish I would have done it years ago. I do not miss my contacts or my glasses. I love being able to see clearly when I wake up, and no hassles with lenses. Also hats off your your staff – very professional, knowledgeable and caring. My experience was an excellent one. I would recommend your service to anyone. Thank you.

– Ann Nelson

Before surgery I couldn’t cross a room without my glasses and/or contacts. For someone who had such bad astigmatism, contacts didn’t work well for me either. This surgery was a dream of mine for years. Such a dream, I forgot to be nervous until minutes before the procedure The actual surgery was painless and not even uncomfortable but WOW was it strange seeing things so close. After (my nap was relaxing) I could already see – even better than with my glasses. It’s been months since that day and I still can’t believe I don’t need corrective eye wear and I even forget that I don’t have to take out my contacts and not reach for my glasses in the morning. This has been a life changing and awesome experience for me and thankfully, I was an ideal case.

– Jennifer Rheault

Amazing! In less than 24 hours, I had 20/25 vision. Now I have 20/20! It is a blessing to be able to see perfectly at any given time! The staff have been wonderful in assisting and answering questions! This is the best purchase/investment for the amount of money I’ve ever spent! The actual surgery was a cool experience too. Thanks to all at Bergstrom's clinic.

– Holly Hanson