Identifying the Causes & Symptoms of Glaucoma

Glaucoma is considered a very tricky disease, because it often progresses significantly before it is detected. It can therefore be a serious challenge for people who fail to undergo routine eye exams. Since it is a condition that can cause blindness, it’s important to be aware of the causes, as well as the symptoms of glaucoma (learn more).

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a condition that affects the eye’s optic nerve, and when this happens, vision is affected. Since there is no cure for glaucoma, it is necessary to have regular eye checks, so that the condition can be detected early.  If it is discovered early, the ophthalmologist can employ the necessary treatment to stabilize the condition, and avert vision loss.

Causes

It is normally associated with the elevation of the intraocular pressure in the eye. The pressure builds up over time, when the intraocular fluid does not drain away as it should.

Symptoms

The loss of peripheral vision is one of the most common symptoms of glaucoma. This loss occurs due to the nerve damage that takes place, which is unfortunately irreversible (read more).

Who is at risk?

Although people can get glaucoma at any age, the risks increase the older you get. Individuals with diabetes and high blood pressure are also more susceptible to the disease, as well as those with a family history of glaucoma.

If you think you may be at risk for glaucoma, then you should have a comprehensive eye examination done, and learn more about the causes and symptoms.

At the Center for Ophthalmology and Laser Surgery, Lighthouse, FL, we utilize advanced technology known as optical coherence tomography or OCT, to diagnose glaucoma. Give us a call today at 954-786-5353, to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Michael Loeffler.

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