If you have been diagnosed with glaucoma, you may not be sure exactly what to expect. Knowing about your condition can help you understand what to expect from illness progression and treatment. Read on to learn some quick facts about glaucoma in South Palm Beach.
1. Almost Three Million Americans Have Glaucoma
While some people can develop glaucoma who are under the age of 40, almost 3 million people over the age of 40 have glaucoma in the United States. Even children and babies can get an early version of glaucoma.
2. Some People Are More Prone to Glaucoma Than Others
While anyone can develop glaucoma, certain populations are at a higher risk. For example, you may be at a greater risk if you have a genetic history of the disease. Your risk also increases if you are African American or Mexican American and over the age of 40. Those over 60 years of age are also at more likely to develop this condition.
3. Glaucoma in South Palm Beach Can Be Caught Early
Early detection is essential when it comes to the effective treatment for this condition. Detection and diagnosis can only be done with a comprehensive dilated eye exam. During this process, eye drops dilate your eyes and a magnifying lens is used to look at the back of your eye. If you are at a high risk for glaucoma, you should have your eyes checked every one to three years based on your age.
4. Eye Pressure Is Key
High intraocular pressure (IOP), or eye pressure, is a big indicator of glaucoma. While high IOP is not a sure sign that you will definitely develop this disease, it is often a sign that you will. Reducing eye pressure is the primary way that glaucoma is treated. Some medications help eye fluid drain, while others help the eyes produce less fluid.
5. Once Glaucoma Progresses, Vision Can Not Return
Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness because the disease damages the optic nerve, leading to permanent vision loss. Once the optic nerve is damaged, it can not be repaired. This is why early detection is so essential when it comes to the treatment of this condition.
For outstanding Treatment of Glaucoma in south palm Beach, Choose South Palm Eye
South Palm Eye is here to help improve your ocular health, offering treatment for glaucoma in South Palm Beach. Our skilled team is here to care for you and your eyes during all stages of your life. Make an appointment by calling 561-737-4040 today!