As we age, our eyes begin to change. You may notice you need more light to read, that you cannot see as well at night, or that your eyes are more sensitive to the sun. While this could be an ordinary sign of aging, it could be a sign of something more serious: glaucoma. Glaucoma is an eye condition where your optic nerve is damaged, most often by high intraocular pressure. It is essential to have a yearly eye exam with an optometrist to see if you have glaucoma because once the optic nerve is damaged, it cannot be repaired. If you have glaucoma, there are things that can be done to slow the progression. Our optometrist at Dunedin Eye Care can test you for glaucoma if you live in or near Dunedin, FL.
Who Gets Glaucoma?
While we tend to think of glaucoma being something that only happens to an older adult, it can happen at any stage of life. While not as common, babies and young adults can suffer from glaucoma. Your race also plays a factor in glaucoma. Africans, Asians, and Hispanics are all more likely to suffer from glaucoma. Certain existing conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure, can increase your chances of glaucoma. Traumatic eye injuries can cause glaucoma. If others in your immediate family have glaucoma, your chances of getting it are better than average. You can discuss any concerns you have with our optometrist.
How to Help Yourself
Part of the problem with glaucoma is it often does not exhibit any warning signs until it is at an advanced stage. Even with symptoms, they may start slowly, and you may not notice them for some time. That is why it is good to get a regular eye exam from an optometrist. We perform tests to determine if you have glaucoma.
Once you know you have glaucoma, you may be prescribed eye drops or oral medication. You can do things for yourself, such as exercise, maintain a healthy weight, and eat a diet rich in antioxidants such as vitamin A, E, C, and zinc.
Always Visit Our Optometrist if You Think You May Have Glaucoma
Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness in the world. When caught early and treated, you stand a better chance of saving your sight. Visit our optometrist Dunedin Eye Care in Dunedin, FL, for a comprehensive eye exam. Your eyes will thank you!
