Especially as you age, you're more prone to certain eye conditions. Some of these issues aren't reversible, either. At Optometric Clinic in Hattiesburg, MS, and the general vicinity, our eye doctors advise patients to see an optometrist to detect glaucoma early before it leads to irreversible vision loss. Generally, preserving your vision is as simple as using a prescription eyedrops daily.
Understanding Glaucoma
Glaucoma describes an eye issue that arises from optic nerve damage. Without the optic nerve functioning properly, your retina can't communicate with your brain. Glaucoma tends to stem from unusually high pressure in your eye. Unfortunately, it ranks as one of the top reasons for blindness in individuals over the age of 60, but this can be prevented with early intervention.
You could develop patchy blind spots either in your central or peripheral vision. It can occur in both eyes simultaneously. In the most advanced stage of the disease, you can experience tunnel vision.
If you don't receive treatment, glaucoma can lead to blindness. In fact, according to the Mayo Clinic, nearly 15 percent of those with glaucoma experience blindness in at least one eye over the course of 20 years.
Causes of Glaucoma
Fluid may build up in your eye and raise the pressure in it. Typically, this fluid drains through the trabecular meshwork in your eye. However, when your eye produces too much fluid or an obstacle hinders the fluid from draining properly, not enough of the excess liquid drains. Instead, it builds up and damages the optic nerve.
In many cases, glaucoma is genetic. You're more at risk if you're over 60 or have a medical issue like heart disease, hypertension, or diabetes.
Treatment for Glaucoma
At our optometry, we diagnose glaucoma by determining your need for contacts or eyeglasses. Our optometrists perform an examination for astigmatism to ensure you receive the correct prescription for contacts or glasses. We evaluate your eye pressure and may conduct other tests as well.
If we diagnose you with glaucoma, our first course of action is usually a prescription eyedrop. Eyedrops either enhance the drainage or reduce how much fluid your eye produces. Some examples include Bimatoprost and Latanoprostene Bunod. Beta blockers are another option that decreases the amount of fluid within your eye. On the other hand, our eye doctor could prescribe an oral medication like a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor to decrease fluid production in your eye.
Contact us for an Appointment Today
If you are experiencing any symptoms of glaucoma, schedule an appointment with Optometric Clinic in Hattiesburg, MS, by calling (601) 545-2020 today. We look forward to providing you with treatment that will offer relief and improve your eye health!