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Whether you have 20/20 vision or require glasses or contact lenses to see perfectly, ongoing eye care from an experienced optometrist should be high on the priority list as you age. The condition known as glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness in the United States, and symptoms are often minor until the disease has become more advanced. If you have a family history of glaucoma, here’s what you should know about the diagnosis and treatment options. 

What Is Glaucoma?

Eye CareGlaucoma is an eye disease that causes fluid pressure within the optic nerve to increase. This buildup of pressure damages the nerve and without proper treatment from an eye care professional, can result in loss of vision or blindness. Most patients diagnosed with glaucoma are over the age of 60.

What Are the Symptoms?

Signs of glaucoma are relatively mild, which is why they often go unnoticed. As such, it’s important for individuals, particularly those over the age of 40, to schedule annual exams at a trusted eye care facility. Some mild symptoms to look out for include loss of peripheral vision, narrowed vision, eye redness, or a hazy appearance in the iris. 

How Is It Treated?

When caught early on, glaucoma can be treated with a combination of medication and surgery. An eye doctor can prescribe drops to help relieve pressure. In some cases, laser surgery or microsurgery might be recommended to increase the flow of fluid, stop a blockage, or create new drainage pathways. 

 

Daniel J. Kroger OD has been providing top-notch eye care to residents throughout West Chester, OH, and its surrounding areas for over 25 years. If you’re looking for a compassionate and professional optometrist to perform an eye exam and determine whether you have glaucoma, call the office today at (513) 777-3936 to schedule your appointment. For additional information on this affordable, service-oriented clinic, known for utilizing the latest technology to improve a patient’s eyesight, visit them online

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