Glaucoma

Early Signs of Glaucoma

Glaucoma, the second leading cause of blindness in the United States cannot be prevented, but when detected early, it can be controlled. Your optometrist at Eye 1^st Vision Center in Sandy Springs performs comprehensive eye and vision examinations, which include thorough patient history, measuring central and peripheral vision, measuring the pressure in your eyes, evaluating visual acuity and retinal evaluation. Since the most common type of glaucoma demonstrates no symptoms until much vision is already lost, many early cases are initially discovered during an optometry exam.

Primary open-angle Glaucoma- also known as chronic glaucoma develops slowly and affects 3-4 million Americans without noticeable symptoms. Glaucoma increases the intraocular pressure (IOP) of your eye, irreparably damaging the optic nerve.

Signs and symptoms of Glaucoma include:

Blurred vision

Eye Pain

Halo seen around lights

Vision loss (including peripheral vision loss)

Tunnel Vision

Who Is At Risk For Developing Glaucoma?

While there are risk factors, the fact is, anyone can develop Glaucoma at any age. This is why routine comprehensive eye examinations are such an important part of our healthcare. Factors that increase your risk of developing Glaucoma include:

Heredity- Family history of the disease increases your risk of developing it

Age- Seniors 60 and above are at increased risk

Medications- Prednisone and Cortisone

Eye Injury- A history of trauma to your eye increases your risk

Diabetes and/or Hypertension- Both conditions increase your risk

Poor Vision

Detecting Glaucoma

Successful early detection of Glaucoma leads to more treatment options and preservation of vision. If you or family members are experiencing any of the above risk factors or symptoms, or if it has been a while since your last eye examination, call Eye 1^st Vision Center in Sandy Springs today for an appointment. 404-252-1702. Our optometrist and the entire team are ready to partner with you to protect the eye and vision health of your whole family.