Glaucoma Information from our Optometrist in Ashburn, VA
As you grow older, your eyes have a higher risk of developing glaucoma. This type of eye disease occurs when your optic nerve is damaged and without the proper care, glaucoma can lead to blindness. Our Ashburn optometrist at OptimEYES offers the following information to raise glaucoma awareness.
Causes of Glaucoma
An increase in pressure within the eye is the most common cause of glaucoma. This pressure results in damage to the optic nerve, which can lead to vision impairment and eventual loss. A pressure in the eye can build up if there is too much fluid in the eye. Keep in mind that certain cases of glaucoma are associated with no increase in pressure, though. Your risk of having glaucoma increases with age, especially if you have one or more risk factors, such as eye trauma, a family history of glaucoma or underlying medical conditions.
Symptoms of Glaucoma
When you start to develop glaucoma, you might have blind spots that affect your peripheral vision or your central vision. These blind spots usually occur in both eyes, although it is possible for one eye to be affected more than the other. As this disease gets worse, you might end up having tunnel vision that makes it difficult or even impossible to see objects in your peripheral vision. As glaucoma progresses, it can cause permanent vision loss if it is not treated in time.
Treatment for Glaucoma
Our Ashburn eye doctor generally treats glaucoma by lowering the pressure in your eyes. This can be done with the use of medicated eyedrops, oral medications or surgical procedures. Early detection and prompt treatment are important in order to prevent vision loss from occurring. Our eye doctor can also recommend lifestyle changes to protect your vision, such as eating healthy, limiting caffeine and sleeping with your head elevated.
Contact Our Ashburn Optometrist at OptimEYES
If you need an eye exam or if you have a higher risk of glaucoma, contact OptimEYES to make an appointment. Our Ashburn optometrist can test for early signs of glaucoma and begin treatment if needed. Call us at (703) 687-4719.