If your glaucoma test reveals the disease, it’s important to maintain the care plan your optometrist recommends. While glaucoma is not curable, early diagnosis, continued treatment, and regular checkups aid in slowing or preventing loss of vision. Here are a few eye care tips if you are among the more than 3 million Americans managing glaucoma.  

3 Ways to Maintain Good Eye Care After a Positive Glaucoma Test

1. Keep Regular Appointments

As much as possible, go to your regularly scheduled eye doctor appointments. Regular exam appointments are crucial for effective management of glaucoma. When you or your doctor must postpone an appointment due to COVID-19 or other reasons, request that it be rescheduled as soon as appropriate. If you are experiencing unusual or new signs or symptoms, such as eye pain, red eye, flashes, or vision changes, notify your doctor immediately. 

2. Maintain Your Treatment Plan

The treatment to lower your eye pressure may involve using prescription eye drops, taking oral medications, undergoing surgery, or having out-patient laser treatment. Whichever treatment or combined care plan is prescribed for you, continue it unless your eye doctor recommends otherwise. When applying eye drops or taking medications, maintain strict hygiene practices, such as washing your hands thoroughly before and after applying drops or taking the drug.

3. Get Organized 

Keep a list of all medications and contact information for your eye doctor and other treating physicians, in case of emergency. Make sure you have an adequate supply of eye drops or other medications to take on your regular schedule. Ask your doctor for extra samples should you have to shelter in place or quarantine for an extended period, preventing you from getting a prescription refilled.

When you need an eye exam or glaucoma test, especially during the pandemic, turn to Eyewear Express in Rhinelander, WI. Optometrist Dr. Jeff Williquette offers exceptional eye care services, continuing his 25-year tradition of treating each patient with skill and compassion. Whether you need new glasses or have treatment questions, Dr. Williquette is ready to help. For more information about his services, call (715) 365-1515 or visit the website.