03/27/2023Ask the Expert – Dr. Amy Armstrong: Understanding Glaucoma, Early Detection, and Treatment Options

Dale Cooper welcomes Dr. Amy Armstrong, glaucoma specialist at West Virginia Eye Consultants, for a wide-ranging conversation on one of the most commonly misunderstood eye conditions. Dr. Armstrong explains that glaucoma is fundamentally a disease of the optic nerve — driven by genetics rather than age alone — and that its symptomless progression makes early screening critical, ideally beginning by age 25 for those with a family history. The discussion covers the full spectrum of treatment options available in Charleston and Beckley, from prescription drops and lasers to minimally invasive and major surgical procedures, as well as the role of advanced imaging technology in catching the disease before significant vision loss occurs. Listener questions address steroid eye drops, ocular hypertension, diabetes-related glaucoma, and the facts — and myths — surrounding marijuana as a treatment.WV-Eye.com and 304-343-EYES (3937)