Glaucoma is a disease that is prevalent in Los Angeles County and throughout the United States. In fact, it is the leading cause of vision loss in the country, with about 3 million Americans being affected by blindness as a result of glaucoma. This condition impacts the eye’s ability to drain aqueous fluid from the eyeball, which in turn causes pressure on the eye and ultimately damages the optic nerve. San Dimas residents who are at risk for developing glaucoma should understand these important facts in order to better understand this condition.
What are Important Facts That I Should Know About Glaucoma?
Glaucoma does not have a lot of early signs and symptoms, and there are no warning signs that patients can look out for. Glaucoma results in slow vision loss that begins with the peripheral vision, so patients may not even notice it for months or years.
No one is immune to glaucoma, but there are certain risk factors that put people at a higher risk of developing this condition. People over the age of 60 and those who have a family history of glaucoma are at a higher risk. In addition, people of African-American, Hispanic or Asian descent are at an increased risk. Those who use steroids, those who have been diagnosed with diabetes and those who have suffered from an eye injury also are at risk.
There is no cure for this condition, and most people who develop glaucoma will have to deal with vision loss or blindness. With early detection, doctors can slow down the progress of the condition.
Glaucoma can be detected during a routine eye exam, when the doctor dilates the patients eyes and examines the optic nerve. In addition, the doctor will test the eye’s pressure during the exam.
Routine eye exams are essential for your health and can help you prevent the severe symptoms associated with glaucoma. Early detection is crucial when it comes to preventing vision loss and blindness. Eye drops, laser eye treatments, as well as surgical procedures, can be used as treatment options to slow down the progress of glaucoma.
If you are concerned that you are at risk for developing glaucoma, then talk with your general surgeon at your next appointment. Your general surgeon can help you determine if you are experiencing any of the signs or symptoms of glaucoma, or if you should have extra testing done because you are at risk for developing this condition. The best thing you can do is stay informed and remain vigilant about having routine eye exams performed. This will allow you to maximize the benefits of early detection, and enjoy a higher quality of life for a longer period of time.
