Your eyes are one of your most valuable resources. Without them, your ability to do the things you love to do often becomes incredibly more difficult, if not impossible. Because of this, it's important to see an eye doctor if you are having any issues with your eyes. One of the common issues that people deal with in relation to their eyes is Glaucoma. For those who think they may have Glaucoma, it's important they visit an optometrist like ours at Eye Clinic of Sandpoint in Sandpoint, Idaho.
What Is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a form of nerve damage in the eye. Specifically, the optic nerve. There are different types of glaucoma, with the most common form causing slow vision loss over time. Glaucoma isn't painful in its early stages, but because it can cause the loss of vision, it is very serious and needs to be addressed as soon as possible.
How Is Glaucoma Treated?
Most people who suffer from glaucoma suffer from primary open-angle glaucoma. This won't manifest itself by causing discomfort in your eyes. However, cloudiness of the eye and a loss of peripheral vision are signs that you need to go see an eye doctor. From there, you will need a proper diagnosis before you go into the treatment phase for glaucoma. This is done by an optometrist, who will evaluate your optic nerve to determine if you're suffering from glaucoma. This is done by dilating your pupil or taking specialized photos of the nerves in your eyes.
Because glaucoma is most commonly caused by high pressure in your eyes, the most common form of treatment for glaucoma includes reducing a person’s intraocular pressure. Prescription eye drops and medicine taken orally are common starting points to help with glaucoma. In more severe cases, glaucoma may require surgery or laser treatment. Oftentimes, treatment plans blend these options.
The best thing you can do for your eyes is to visit an optometrist as soon as possible and listen to any optometry advice you’re given.
What Happens if Glaucoma Goes Untreated?
While most people who have glaucoma won't go blind, it can have a massive impact on your ability to see. Without treating it, your vision will only get worse. In turn, this will make it almost impossible to live the same quality of life you did before developing glaucoma.
Overdue for an Eye Exam? Visit Our Optometrist Today!
For more information about glaucoma and other eye issues, contact Eye Clinic of Sandpoint in Sandpoint, Idaho to set up an appointment with our optometrist.
