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Glaucoma is one of the many eye ailments that warrants regular appointments to the optometrist. Glaucoma occurs when there’s too much pressure in your eye, and it can damage your optic nerve. Since this nerve sends images to your brain, the damage could result in partial or total vision loss. To learn more about the causes and prevention of this eye condition, here’s a guide through the basics of glaucoma.   

Causes & Risk Factors

Glaucoma occurs when there is an abnormal amount of pressure in your eye due to fluid buildup called aqueous humor. Fluid buildup can happen because there’s an overproduction of fluid or because there’s a clog in your eye’s drainage system that doesn’t allow the fluid to flow out as it usually would. It’s easy for glaucoma to go undetected, so it’s important to attend regular appointments if you have any of these risk factors:

  • A family history of glaucoma
  • Being over the age of 60
  • Being extremely nearsighted or farsighted
  • Having a history of an eye injury
  • Having diabetes

Symptoms

There are different types of glaucoma, such as chronic-open angle glaucoma and acute closed glaucoma. Each type has its own set of symptoms. Chronic-open angle glaucoma is harder to detect at early stages. As the condition progresses, your peripheral and central vision will start to deteriorate until you experience tunnel vision, which is an advanced stage of glaucoma. Acute closed glaucoma is not as subtle, since you will gradually feel pain in your eye. Other symptoms may include eye redness, seeing halos in the light, and blurred vision. In this case, it is crucial to promptly visit your optometrist for a diagnosis, alleviating pain, and preventing your eyesight from getting worse.   

How to Prevent It

There is no proven way to prevent glaucoma, but regular appointments with your optometrist will ensure the overall best health for your eyes, including early detection of any problems. If you are diagnosed with glaucoma, early detection can slow the progress of the disease and help maintain your vision.

Following these preventative eye care methods will help keep your eyes healthy:optometrist

  • Wear eye protection when necessary
  • Take eye drops only as prescribed
  • Get to know your family’s eye history 

 

 

For an optometrist that is up-to-date with the latest technology, visit Joseph Van Keuren, O.D., located in Elyria, OH. He works with patients of all ages and can use his expertise to spot issues of concern during a thorough eye exam. Whether you have glaucoma or astigmatism, he can recommend the most effective treatment for your conditions. Call (440) 365-2021 to schedule an appointment or visit their website for more information on their services.

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