Do you suspect you have Glaucoma? You must seek medical attention from an optometrist. By visiting an “optometrist near me,” you can get diagnosed and get a personalized treatment plan. Even if it's determined you have another eye condition and not glaucoma, you can get treated and prevent it from worsening. For all your eye care needs, you can rely on the optometry professionals at Family Eyecare of Glendale.
What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is the term used to describe a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve. This damage usually occurs due to increased interocular pressure. Glaucoma is often called "the silent thief of sight" because it can cause gradual vision loss without any obvious symptoms. Left untreated, glaucoma can lead to blindness. If diagnosed early, our optometrist can help you preserve your vision. Glaucoma affects millions of people worldwide, making it one of the leading causes of blindness. If you are at risk for glaucoma or have been diagnosed with this condition, make sure to talk to an optometrist near me about the best ways to protect your vision.
Risk Factors for Glaucoma
People over the age of 40 are at an increased risk of glaucoma. However, other factors make you more susceptible to this condition, including:
- Family history of glaucoma
- High blood pressure
- Injury to the eye
- Previous intraocular surgery
- Have diabetes
Symptoms of Glaucoma
Since glaucoma can cause gradual vision loss, there are usually no symptoms in the early stages. However, if left untreated it can cause some severe symptoms including:
- A cloudy or blurry spot in your peripheral vision (this is usually the first sign of glaucoma).
- Distorted vision, especially when looking at lights. Glaucoma can make lights look like halos.
- Seeing floating spots, which is an effect caused by the retina not receiving enough blood flow.
- Eye pain and feeling like something is stuck in your eye.
- Headaches, especially when looking into bright lights
- Inability to tell the difference between colors
If you experience any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with our eye doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
Glaucoma Treatment
There are various options available for glaucoma treatment. Our eye care professionals might recommend eye drops or surgery to treat your symptoms. Laser eye surgery is another option to reduce the pressure in your eyes. Oral medications are another option for glaucoma treatment, and these are mainly used when eye drops fail to work. Our eye doctor will help determine what treatment option will work best for you.
Visit Family Eyecare of Glendale for Glaucoma Treatment
Call Family Eyecare of Glendale today at(602) 843-2900 for more information or to schedule an appointment with our optometrist.