What Is Glaucoma and How Is It Treated?
Glaucoma is a serious eye disease that is more common in older patients, although it can be found in people of all ages. It is a disease that can cause vision loss, which cannot be regained. Glaucoma can have a genetic component and may run in families, but it can also occur in individuals without a family history of the disease. It is important to have an annual eye exam with an optometrist to test for glaucoma and initiate early treatment if necessary. If you need an optometry appointment for testing, please call Atlantic EyeCare in Virginia Beach for an appointment.
What Is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma occurs when the optic nerves behind the eyes are damaged, leading to impaired transmission of images from the eyes to the brain. As the damage progresses, vision loss worsens, and once lost, it cannot be restored. This nerve damage is often caused by increased pressure inside the eye. When the fluid in the eye becomes too thick and exerts excessive pressure, it damages the optic nerve. Regular eye pressure checks during your annual eye exam can help identify glaucoma. Detecting high eye pressure through your eye doctor's examination allows for prompt treatment of this serious eye condition.
How Is It Treated?
Several treatments are available for glaucoma. While these treatments cannot restore lost vision, they can help prevent or slow down further vision loss. Treatment options may include medications to lower intraocular pressure. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to alleviate the condition. The goal is to minimize the amount of vision loss, so early initiation of treatment is crucial.
Get an Eye Exam
To schedule an eye care exam with our optometrist at Atlantic EyeCare in Virginia Beach, please call our office at (757) 340-7070. Regular glaucoma testing is vital for maintaining your eye health, so make sure not to skip your annual eye exams.