Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness in the world, affecting more than 57 million people globally. However, it can be treated when diagnosed early. If your eye doctor has diagnosed you with glaucoma, you may have many questions about the disease, and we are here to answer them.
Restoration Eye Care offers exceptional eye services to our patients in Columbia, MO. Our services include eye exams to determine if you have glaucoma and initiate the right treatment. Below, we have discussed the main questions about glaucoma to shed more light on the disease. Check them out.
What is glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a collective term for eye diseases that damage the optic nerve. The optic nerve is connected to the brain, so its damage could significantly reduce vision. Glaucoma happens when there is excess eye pressure, which damages the optic nerve. The exact cause of eye pressure is unknown, but it is believed to be caused by aqueous fluid not draining from the eye.
What are the risk factors of glaucoma?
Everyone can get glaucoma, but below are the main risk factors:
- Family history: Primary glaucoma can be inherited, so people with a history of glaucoma are at a higher risk.
- Age: The occurrence of glaucoma increases with age, meaning people aged 40 and above are at a higher risk.
- High eye pressure: Glaucoma is caused by high eye pressure. An ophthalmologist should test the pressure of your eyes to determine if you are at risk.
- Diabetes: The risk of glaucoma is significantly high for people with diabetes. Observe regular eye exams if you have diabetes or have a family history of diabetes.
What are the different types of glaucoma?
Discussed below are the main types of glaucoma. An eye doctor will ask you questions before treatment and examine you to determine the type of glaucoma you suffer from.
- Open-angle glaucoma, which develops slowly. Many people do not realize they have it until it becomes severe.
- Closed-angle glaucoma, which appears all of a sudden and requires immediate treatment.
- Secondary glaucoma, which is caused by conditions like diabetes or taking certain medications.
- Normal eye glaucoma, which is caused by the occurrence of excess eye fluid.
Generally, people with glaucoma experience eye pain and blurry vision. Contact our eye doctors immediately if you notice a change in eye vision for a comprehensive eye exam and treatment.
Can glaucoma be treated?
Prompt treatment of glaucoma can reduce the effects and help retain your eyesight. However, the damaged optic nerves may not be restored, but your ophthalmologist may treat you to prevent further damage.
Contact Restoration Eye Care for Glaucoma Treatment
Regular eye exams can help spot signs of glaucoma so you can get treated early. If you or a loved one needs a reliable eye doctor in Columbia, MO, visit our clinic for quick assistance. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with our friendly team.
