What to Know About Glaucoma

Did you know you're more likely to develop glaucoma once you turn 40? Typically, at that point, we'll suggest you receive a glaucoma test during an eye exam, though the frequency will change as you age. At Dr. C. Vision Care, serving Perdido Key, Pensacola, Lillian, Elberta, and the nearby region, we offer this testing and would like to provide you with some patient education on the topic. 

General Information

Glaucoma is a condition that affects the optic nerve. Specifically, it's a problem that occurs when you have damage to this portion of your eye. We'd like to note that this is the portion of your eye that communicates with your brain.

People who have this condition may notice patchy spots in their peripheral vision. Sometimes, the change in your eyesight is so gradual that you won't even notice it until the condition has progressed. Eventually, this condition can lead to blindness. In fact, this is one of the leading causes of blindness in the U.S. and even the world.

Besides this form, which is open-angle glaucoma, there's another form, angle-closure glaucoma -- a medical emergency. Though it's less common, the symptoms appear suddenly. With this form, you may experience any of the following:

• Eye pain
• Eyes appearing visibly red
• Blurry vision
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Getting Tested

We encourage routine testing for this condition so our optometrist can detect it early. An early diagnosis means we can manage it and slow progression. Patients should start glaucoma testing at 40. From the ages of 40 to 54, they should be tested every one to three years. Once they're between the ages of 55 and 64, they should be tested every one to two years. Those who are 65 and older should be tested every six to 12 months.

While we conduct the "puff" test during a normal eye exam, which assesses your eye pressure, we use tonometry or ophthalmoscopy for our routine testing once you reach 40. We can provide other testing as well, such as:

• Visual field testing
• Optic nerve imaging
• Angle test

Treatment

Though the treatment varies based on the severity of your condition, some possible treatments our optometrist may prescribe include:

• Prescription eyedrops
• Oral medication
• Referral for laser therapy
• Referral for surgery

Contact Dr. C. Vision Care in Pensacola, FL

At Dr. C. Vision Care, serving Perdido Key, Pensacola, Lillian, Elberta, and the neighboring communities, our eye doctor offers glaucoma testing as part of a routine eye exam. Our goal is to preserve your vision as long as possible. Book an appointment with our optometrist today by calling 850-456-2019.