Glaucoma Prevention in Great Neck, NY
Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness for people in the US. Yet people often don’t realize the severity of the condition if left untreated. While there is no cure for glaucoma, there are glaucoma treatments available. Prescribed medications and/or surgery can help prevent further loss of vision.
Glaucoma testing in Great Neck, NY
What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that may cause loss of vision and blindness through damaging the optic nerve in the back of the eye. There are several different types, but the most common in the US is called open-angle glaucoma-- this is what most people refer to when talking about glaucoma.
Symptoms of Glaucoma
The symptoms of glaucoma may not be prevalent at first, which is why so many people are unaware they have it! Over the years, you may slowly begin to lose your vision, beginning with your peripheral (side) vision. You may begin to notice that you can no longer see items off to the side and may eventually become blind due to glaucoma.
Causes & Risks of Glaucoma
The causes of glaucoma have not yet been identified, however there may be a correlation between high eye pressure and glaucoma patients.
Risk factors for open-angle glaucoma include:
- Being over the age of 60
- Having African American or Hispanic/Latino background and over the age of 40
- Having a family history of glaucoma
- High eye pressure
- Suspicious optic nerve appearance with increased cupping
- Thin cornea
When to Seek Attention
Angle-closure glaucoma can lead to sudden symptoms that need immediate attention. Get help right away if you experience intense eye pain, upset stomach, red eye, and/or blurry vision.
Glaucoma treatment in Long island, NY is available.
Prevention
There’s no way to prevent glaucoma, which is why you should schedule routine eye exams to check for any possible eye-related issues. As part of a dilated eye exam, your doctor will administer eye drops to dilate the pupil, then check for glaucoma and other eye issues. Practice regular exercise and a nutritious diet to improve your physical and mental well-being. Taking care of your mental and emotional health is also very important. HealthBridge's primary care physicians in Great Neck test for glaucoma during each patient's comprehensive physical exam.
Treatment Options
Your doctor may recommend medicines, laser treatment, or surgery for your glaucoma. It is imperative to begin treatment immediately to prevent your condition from worsening!
- Medicines: prescription eye drops are a common treatment that help to lower eye pressure and prevent optic nerve damage
- Laser treatment: to lower eye pressure lasers may be used to drain excess fluid from the eye
- Surgery: surgery is another option to lower eye pressure and help drain excess fluid from the eye
If you think you may be at risk or experiencing early signs of glaucoma, visit a healthcare specialist now.
HealthBridge's primary care physicians in Great Neck are keen on early detection and preventative care. If you are considering the benefits of concierge medicine in Great Neck, NY, call 516-627-4433 today to learn more about how concierge medicine will benefit your health and future.
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