Glaucoma is a common yet serious eye disease that can cause blindness. While there is no cure, early detection and glaucoma treatment in Tinley Park can help slow or prevent vision loss. That’s why it’s essential to be aware of the risk factors, signs, types of glaucoma, treatments available, and when you should see an eye doctor. Keep reading to learn more.
Who is at risk for glaucoma?
Anyone can get glaucoma, but some people are more susceptible than others. Risk factors for glaucoma include:
- Age (higher risk over 60)
- A family history of glaucoma
- Being of African American or Hispanic descent
- Having medical conditions like diabetes
- Taking certain medications, such as steroids
- Having high eye pressure
It’s important to talk to your eye doctor if you think you might be at risk for glaucoma. They can monitor your eye health closely and discuss possible treatments with you if needed.
What are the signs of glaucoma?
Common signs of glaucoma include tunnel vision, blurred vision, seeing halos around lights, eye redness or pain, and headaches near the temple area. However, most people with glaucoma don’t notice any symptoms until the disease has progressed to its later stages. That is why regular comprehensive eye exams are critical to detecting any changes in your eyes before irreversible damage occurs.
Types of glaucoma
There are two main types of glaucoma:
- Open-angle glaucoma is more common; it occurs when drainage channels in the front part of the eye become partly blocked.
- Angle-closure glaucoma develops when these channels become completely blocked off due to a change in the shape of the iris (the colored part of the eye). This type often causes a sudden onset of symptoms like pain and blurred vision due to a fluid buildup in the eye that increases pressure inside it quickly.
Treatments for glaucoma
The primary goal with treating glaucoma is to reduce intraocular pressure (IOP) by either reducing fluid production or increasing the flow of fluid from your eyes. Reducing IOP levels prevents further damage to the optic nerve fibers, which carry visual messages to the brain to help you see.
Treatments for glaucoma include prescription medications (eye drops), laser surgery (selective laser trabeculoplasty or SLT), and traditional surgery methods such as trabeculectomy. Your doctor will determine the best glaucoma treatment option for you based on your individual case and needs.
Protect your eyesight from glaucoma
Early detection and treatment play an important role in slowing or preventing vision loss associated with glaucoma. Make sure you schedule an appointment with our optometrists today if you’re worried about your risk level or are looking for some peace of mind!
