While it is true that glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness in those age 60 and older, glaucoma can occur at any stage of life for several reasons. Regardless of your age, it is crucial to schedule regular eye exams so an optometrist can look for changes in your vision. Dr. Leroy Vaughn, one of the leading ophthalmologists in Inglewood CA, can do a screening for glaucoma.
What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is an eye disease that occurs due to damage due to optic nerve damage. This damage typically occurs due to increased interocular pressure. Symptoms of glaucoma can be difficult to detect, and many of them do not appear until irreversible optic nerve damage has occurred. This is why it is important to schedule regular eye exams.
Are There Different Types of Glaucoma?
There are several types of glaucoma. The most common types are primary open-angle (the most common type), acute angle-closure (which has a quick onset), secondary glaucoma (often occurring because of an eye injury or disease), and normal-tension or low-tension (damage to the optic nerve that doesn't involve high eye pressure).
Glaucoma Risk Factors
Age and genetics play a large role in developing glaucoma. A traumatic eye injury can also cause glaucoma. Having other health issues such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and sickle cell anemia increases your chances of glaucoma. People with extreme nearsightedness or farsightedness are at a higher risk for glaucoma. People born with naturally thin corneas often experience higher eye pressure. And finally, taking corticosteroids for an extended period could increase your risk of suffering from glaucoma.
What Can I Do?
Once your optic nerve has been damaged by glaucoma, repairing that damage isn't possible. There are things you can do to try to help prevent glaucoma, including:
- Exercising regularly
- Maintain a healthy weight with a low BMI
- Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables (leafy greens are best)
- Substituting tea for coffee
- Taking magnesium supplements
- Taking care of your teeth with regular brushing and dental visits
- Stop smoking
Our optometrist will evaluate your condition to determine whether or not you are suffering from glaucoma and recommend treatment accordingly. While vision lost due to glaucoma cannot be recovered, the condition can be managed to prevent future vision loss.
Schedule an Eye Exam with Our Ophthalmologist in In Inglewood, CA
Leroy Vaughn, MD has provided residents of Inglewood, CA with reliable eye care services for many years. Call us today at (310) 671-0909 for more information on glaucoma or to schedule an eye exam with our ophthalmologist.
