Vision loss becomes a greater problem as you grow older. Conditions known to cause it include cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration. Glaucoma is another condition you should learn about as you age. Here at H Rubin Vision Center, our goal is to provide effective glaucoma treatment to all Sumter, SC, residents who need it.
What Are the Causes of Glaucoma?
One of the ways you can lose vision is to sustain damage to the optic nerve. In the case of glaucoma, the damage to the optic nerve is often the result of increased pressure within the eyes. The buildup of the aqueous humor inside the eyes can elevate the pressure level and cause significantly damage the optic nerve, potentially even leading to blindness.
The drainage structures around your eyes are supposed to prevent the accumulation of aqueous humor. Unfortunately, various issues may prevent the drainage structures from working as intended and you may develop glaucoma as a result.
What Are the Symptoms of Glaucoma?
Glaucoma can be a tricky condition to deal with mainly because of its symptoms. Early on, you may not notice anything wrong with your vision. By the time you finally notice the onset of glaucoma, your field of vision may already be permanently diminished. Nothing can restore your vision at that point. Instead, you an eye doctor can only help prevent the damage from getting worse.
What Are the Treatment Options for Glaucoma?
If we detect the glaucoma early enough, we may be able to use different treatments to slow its progression before you incur vision loss. One way we can do this is by prescription eye drops to reduce the pressure in your eyes.
Alternatively, our optometrist may recommend surgery if your condition has advanced enough. Although we do not offer surgery, we can provide a consultation to see if you are a good candidate.
When it comes to preventing glaucoma, the best approach involves scheduling regular eye exams. This allows our eye doctor to monitor your eyes for signs of the disease so he can render treatment as soon as it’s needed.
Get Contact Lenses, Eyeglasses, and Eye Care from an Optometrist Near You
We at H Rubin Vision Center can provide glaucoma prevention and treatment so visit our clinic in Sumter, SC, to work on keeping your eyes protected. Call us at (803) 775-7877 for contact lenses, eyeglasses, and eye care from an optometrist near you.