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Glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness, and experts estimate that it affects nearly three million Americans. As such, eye doctors continue to stress the importance of annual eye exams to track and understand your vision. If you’re unfamiliar with the condition, here’s a basic guide to review.

Understanding Glaucoma

What It Is & What Causes It

This eye condition affects the optic nerve and becomes progressively worse over time. It’s associated with a buildup of high fluid pressure in the front of the eye, which is caused by a blockage within the eye’s mesh channel that prevents fluid from draining properly. When left untreated, it can result in vision loss and eventually blindness. Glaucoma is inherited and can also be caused by chemical injury or blunt trauma to the eye.

GlaucomaSymptoms

Many individuals do not experience symptoms early on; however, some eye patients report peripheral vision loss. Other possible symptoms include eye redness, headaches, dilated pupils, halos in your vision, foggy vision, and nausea or vomiting. People over the age of 60 and those diagnosed with diabetes have a higher risk of contracting glaucoma.

Treatment Options

An eye doctor can diagnose you through an eye exam that measures fluid pressure. Once diagnosed, they can prescribe a series of eye drops that limit the production of the aqueous humor fluids and, in turn, lower your overall eye pressure. Depending on the progression of this condition, your eye doctor may also recommend laser therapy, inserting drainage tubes, or minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) to reduce pressure further and maintain vision.

 

If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms noted above, the dedicated team at Comprehensive Eye Care can help. Led by Drs. Michael Korenfeld, MD, ACOS, and Matthew Lazarus, OD, this top-notch vision center can diagnose and treat a variety of eye conditions, including glaucoma. Call this Franklin County, MO, practice today at (636) 390-3999 to schedule an eye exam. Visit their website to learn more about this eye doctor’s commitment to personalized care using state-of-the-art equipment.

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