Are you looking for an optometrist near you to help with your glaucoma? At University Eye Associates, serving Charlotte, NC, and Davidson, NC, we offer personalized eye care designed to safeguard your vision. Additionally, we are here to answer any questions you have about your eye health and have provided a list of the most frequently asked questions about glaucoma to help you better understand this condition.
What Is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of conditions that cause damage to the optic nerve, which is essential for vision. Damage to the optic nerve from glaucoma is most often caused by high pressure in the eye. Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness globally. Although glaucoma is found mostly in elderly, it can occur at any age. Thankfully, regular visits to a trusted optometrist near you can help with early detection.
Who Is at Risk for Glaucoma?
There are several risk factors that can increase your chances of developing glaucoma, including:
- Age: People over 60 are at higher risk.
- Family History: Glaucoma can run in families.
- Medical Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure can increase your risk.
- Eye Conditions: Severe nearsightedness or farsightedness can also contribute to this condition.
- Race: More common in African Americans.
- Previous ocular injuries: Blunt or severe trauma to the eye can cause elevated eye pressure.
- Medication: Steroids can cause elevated pressure in some patients.
How Is Glaucoma Diagnosed?
At our optometry clinic, an eye doctor will perform an eye exam, which is required to diagnose glaucoma. This exam may include:
- Measuring intraocular pressure.
- Inspecting the drainage angle of your eye.
- Evaluating your optic nerve for damage.
- Testing your peripheral vision.
Remember that regular screenings with an optometrist near you is vital to detect eye conditions early, such as glaucoma, which may not show any early symptoms.
What Are the Treatment Options for Glaucoma?
Unfortunately, glaucoma is usually not curable, but it can be managed to help prevent further irreversible vision loss. Some of the most common treatment options are:
- Prescription eye drops that can help reduce eye pressure.
- Oral medications to lower eye pressure.
- Surgery to improve drainage.
Your eye doctor will help determine which treatment option is the best one for you based on your health history, lifestyle, and current symptoms.
Get Glaucoma Treatment and Optometry Care from an Optometrist Near You
Don't wait until it's too late. Protect your vision by scheduling an eye exam with us at University Eye Associates. Call us for glaucoma treatment and optometry care from an optometrist near you. Call us at 704-251-6476 (University (Charlotte, NC,), 704-269-6576 (Davidson, NC), and 704-385-7120 (Harrisburg (Rocky River)).