- posted: Aug. 18, 2023
Early Signs of Glaucoma
Glaucoma damages the eye’s optic nerve, which can lead to blindness. Catching this eye condition as early as possible is important to slow its progression and protect your eyes from vision loss. Our optometrist at Kilgo Eyecare in Asheville, NC, provides the following information to help you recognize early signs of glaucoma.
Symptoms of Glaucoma
Glaucoma develops gradually without showing any signs in the early stages. You might only realize you have this condition once it reaches advanced stages. As glaucoma worsens, you might notice blind spots in your peripheral vision.
In advanced situations, you might have trouble with your central vision. Another type of glaucoma, known as acute angle-closure glaucoma, is considered an emergency. This glaucoma causes sudden symptoms, such as a bad headache, nausea, eye pain, and blurry vision.
When to Seek Optometry Care
If you think you have this condition, you should make an optometry appointment with our eye doctor. There are three risk factors to consider in the list below:
- Family history of glaucoma
- Severe farsightedness or nearsightedness
- Over the age of 55
Remember that you should seek immediate care if you have symptoms of acute angle-closure glaucoma.
Glaucoma Prevention
Glaucoma prevention focuses on reducing risk factors and early detection to manage the condition before it progresses and causes irreversible vision loss. While it may not be possible to prevent glaucoma completely, you can take certain steps to lower your risk and detect it early.
Routine eye exams are essential to detect glaucoma in its early stages. Other prevention tips include wearing protective eyewear to prevent eye injuries that can lead to glaucoma and taking prescription eye drops to lower eye pressure.
Contact Our Eye Doctor
If you have symptoms of glaucoma or need a test for this eye disease, contact Kilgo Eyecare in Asheville, NC. Our optometrist can evaluate your vision and check for signs of glaucoma. If you have this condition, we can recommend a treatment plan. Call our office at (828) 676-3260 to schedule an appointment.
