Diagnosing and Care for Glaucoma

Glaucoma refers to certain types of eye conditions that cause damage to the eye’s optic nerve. Caused by extreme eye pressure, the damage becomes worse over time, thereby affecting the vision. Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness, especially among the elderly. It can, however, occur at any age, and it tends to be genetic. There are some types of glaucoma that do not have symptoms or signs until the advanced stage. Most patients get the disease much later in life.
 

Most glaucoma patients do not exhibit any pain or early symptoms. It is important to visit an eye specialist for an eye checkup to ensure early diagnosis and treatment. This is the best way to avoid long-term vision loss. Lowering the eye pressure that causes glaucoma can help to protect the sight. Through regular eye examinations and by following a good treatment plan, patients can keep their vision.

 

Diagnosing Glaucoma

The doctor will carry out a comprehensive eye examination and review the patients’ medical history when diagnosing glaucoma. Some of the tests that are carried out include measuring the intraocular pressure and checking for vision loss. The doctor will also test for nerve damage using imaging and dilated eye examinations. Other tests include an inspection of the eye’s drainage angle and measuring corneal thickness. The severity of the damage will determine the testing procedure.

 

Treatment for Glaucoma

While the damage resulting from glaucoma is irreversible, there are treatments that can help to prevent or slow down vision loss. If the disease is diagnosed in the early stages, proper treatment can be very effective. Care for glaucoma involves lowering the intraocular pressure using oral medications, prescription eye drops, laser treatment, or even surgery.
 

Glaucoma treatment will often begin with eye drops that help to reduce eye pressure. If eye drops alone do not bring relief, oral medications are prescribed. Laser therapy and other surgical procedures are usually the last resort. The treatments help to improve fluid drainage in the eye, which then lowers the pressure.

 

Home Care Remedies

There are several lifestyle and home care remedies that can help to promote eye health. These remedies can help to reduce damaging eye pressure. Eating a healthy diet is one of the best ways to maintain your eye health. You can reduce the effects of glaucoma by eating vitamin and nutrient-rich diets.
 

Antioxidant vitamins, copper, zinc, and selenium are essential for eye health. Other lifestyle remedies include limiting your caffeine intake, getting regular exercise, and sleeping with your head elevated. Drink small amounts of fluids throughout the day, and always remember to take your medications as prescribed.
 

Early diagnosis of glaucoma can help to lower the risk of eye damage. There are things that you can do to protect your vision. It is a good idea to find out your family history. Try to learn if any of your relatives have been diagnosed with glaucoma. Make sure that you have regular eye exams and follow the doctor’s instructions. Moderate exercise, such as walking, can help to reduce eye pressure. Ensure that you use eyewear to protect your eyes when working on different home projects or when playing sports.


 

To know more about Glaucoma and other eye conditions, visit Davie Family Eye Care at our offices in Davie, Florida. You can also call (754) 238-5360 to book an appointment today.