January is Glaucoma Awareness Month, and getting regular eye tests can help prevent the development. Glaucoma causes damage to the optic nerve in the eye that can lead to blindness. It has affected over 2.7 million people over the age of 40. If you are over 40 or just have questions about eye health, call or visit AFC Urgent Care West Hartford. Our physicians can give you the best preventative care and recommendations based on your general health and concerns. 

Symptoms of Glaucoma

Glaucoma is one of those illnesses that when you begin to experience symptoms, it may be too late for treatment. Symptoms that are most recognized include:

• Loss of peripheral vision
• A decrease in contract sensitivity
• Eye pain (for acute attacks)

Comprehensive eye exams are the only way to catch glaucoma early. While AFC Urgent Care West Hartford cannot provide this type of exam, our physicians can recommend eye technicians to see. Avoiding these exams and waiting for symptoms to begin can severely impact a patient’s quality of sight and lead to irreparable damage. Once glaucoma damages your optic nerve, there is way to fix it.

Diagnosing Glaucoma

In addition to the comprehensive eye exams, your optometrist will look into family medical history, intraocular pressure, and optic nerve evaluation. Family medical history is likely one of the most important factors, as it puts patients in a higher category. Eye pressure is one of the ways optometrists can see the development of glaucoma. Measuring this regularly is how optometrists are able to see if glaucoma is getting worse.

Treatment of Glaucoma

Since eye pressure is how optometrists are able to measure the development, lowering eye pressure can prolong symptoms. In order to do this, eye drops, medications, laser treatment, or surgery may be recommended. Certain medications for other illnesses can reduce the amount of fluid your eyes produce. This increases pressure, so doctors will likely try to lower it with eyedrops initially. Be sure to talk with your doctors about your eye health and any concerns you have.

At home, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can improve the quality of your overall health, including your eyes. This includes regular exercise, eating a healthy diet, and drinking plenty of fluids. Additionally, sleeping with your head partially elevated can help reduce inocular pressure while sleeping. 

For more information on eye health or general health, call or visit AFC Urgent Care West Hartford. Our physicians are available to answer all of your questions and make recommendations based on your concerns.