Everyone who values their vision should educate themselves about glaucoma, as it’s the leading cause of poor vision and vision loss in the world. However, while nearly everyone has heard of glaucoma, most still have lots of questions. Professional eye care is critical when it comes to preventing and treating glaucoma, so if you’re due for an eye exam or screening, get in touch with Epic Vision Eye Centers at one of our nine convenient locations.
What is Glaucoma?
Since the optic nerve is responsible for carrying information from your eye to your brain, damage to it can naturally result in vision issues. Glaucoma is an eye disease that causes optic nerve damage in various ways via changes to the internal fluid pressure within the eye. Glaucoma can be hereditary, but it can also develop as a result of other factors. It is most common in people 40 years old and above.
What Causes Glaucoma?
Although experts still aren’t quite sure of the exact cause of glaucoma, the most common contributor to associated damage is blockage of any of the passages that allow fluid to drain unrestricted from the eye. When this occurs, the pressure within the eyeball builds, in turn placing excessive pressure on the optic nerve. The optic nerve is quite fragile and easily damaged by factors like these.
Does Glaucoma Cause Blindness?
While glaucoma definitely can cause blindness, this is ultimately preventable. The key is early diagnosis and corrective treatment to control any potential damage. If this doesn’t occur in time, glaucoma sufferers may gradually lose their eyesight, starting with their peripheral vision and potentially culminating in complete blindness.
What Are the Warning Signs of Glaucoma?
Unfortunately, glaucoma is the type of condition that sneaks up on most people who have it. By the time you’re experiencing recognizable symptoms, you’re likely already experienced the associated nerve damage. Be on the lookout for symptoms like morning headaches, eye pain, nausea or vomiting, and any visual impairment. If you think you may be experiencing any of those things, book an eye exam as soon as possible.
How is Glaucoma Diagnosed and Treated?
Our eye doctor detects glaucoma using a simple, painless procedure called tonometry to measure the internal pressure in your eye. Our doctor will also check your eyesight and potentially the integrity of your optic nerve. Treatment will likely be prescriptions eye drops or other medications. In severe cases, additional therapy or surgery may be recommended.
Schedule an Eye Exam with Our Optometrist in Smithville, MO
If you require an optometrist in Smithville, North Kansas, Dodge City, Manhattan, Baldwin City, or elsewhere in the surrounding areas, the eye care professionals at Epic Vision Eye Centers are ready to assist you. Call us today or schedule an appointment online.