Sacramento Optometrists Talk Glaucoma & Treatment
Glaucoma Treatment from Our Optometrist Near You
Although certain changes are normal as you age, significant and even slight changes to your vision can be a sign of more complicated problems. In other words, it is okay to be concerned, but there is no need to panic.
Glaucoma is an eye condition that contributes to permanent changes in your vision. If it is not treated, the condition can lead to severe problems with your vision, including blindness. If you are looking for an optometrist near you in the Sacramento, CA, area to answer questions about your eyes and vision or more information about glaucoma treatment, our team at Arena Eye Care Optometry can help.
What Is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a complicated eye disease usually caused by a build-up of pressure in your eyes. Although individuals with normal pressure levels can develop glaucoma, it is most common when the pressure in the eyes exceeds 22 mm Hg. What makes glaucoma difficult to detect is people are typically symptom free with mild to moderately elevated pressure, yet they could be losing their vision and have no idea it's happening. Low blood pressure, severe migraine headaches, sleep apnea, Raynaud’s Disease, and angina are examples of systemic conditions that increase the risk of glaucoma, especially normal pressure glaucoma.
While elevated pressure provides the first clear symptom of a problem, it is not the only factor that contributes to the development of glaucoma. Our Sacramento optometrists, Dr. Holmberg and Dr. Patel of Arena Eye Care will examine multiple factors to assess a patient’s risk for glaucoma, which can include:
• Age
• Family history
• Genetic factors
• Certain medications
• Diabetes
• Trauma to the eyes
In general, a person’s risk for developing glaucoma increases with age. It is most common in adults after they turn 40 years old, and it is more common in individuals with diabetes or a history of vision problems. It also occurs after trauma to the eyes or when individuals take certain medication. Since genetic factors contribute to the risk of developing glaucoma, it isn't possible to eliminate the risk through lifestyle factors alone. The good news is that it is possible to reduce your risk for glaucoma by maintaining a healthy lifestyle and regular visits to an eye doctor near you for support.
Treatments for Glaucoma
In general, diagnosing and treating glaucoma in its earliest stages maximizes the ability to maintain great vision and the quality of life you are accustomed to. Having annual comprehensive eye exams greatly increases the probability of an early diagnosis. If you are concerned about glaucoma, there are a series of diagnostic tests that are done to determine if you have the disease as well as the risk for progression going forward. Once the diagnosis is made, ongoing treatment (typically eye drops) and testing further minimizes the risk to your vision.
At Arena Eye Care Optometry, we are Glaucoma Certified and have a vast array of state-of-the-art tools to properly evaluate anyone for glaucoma, as well as many other conditions. If treatment is necessary, we discuss all medical and surgical options before proceeding. We are also contracted with most health insurance providers available locally. If you have a comprehensive eye exam through your vision insurance, but we are not contracted with your medical insurance, then we can consult with an in-network provider so you get the care you need.
Contact Arena Eye Care Optometry Today
Treating any eye condition requires appropriate steps and tools. When glaucoma threatens your vision and quality of life, it is important to seek the help of a professional optometrist. Remember, the first step to healthy eyes is getting an annual eye exam. Call us at (916) 419-8167 or contact us to schedule a consultation today!
