Glaucoma can cause blurry vision and make tasks like reading or driving difficult. At Liverpool Optometry Group in Liverpool, CA, we provide comprehensive eye exams to accurately diagnose glaucoma and offer prompt treatment to preserve your vision. Before scheduling your appointment, learn more about the symptoms of glaucoma and why treatment is important below: 

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a disease that damages the optic nerve. The disease occurs when the fluid in your eye doesn’t drain properly and accumulates, which puts pressure on the optic nerve and eventually harms it. Glaucoma can cause pain, blurriness, and even lead to vision loss if it is not treated. While it's most common in adults over the age of 60, it can occur at any age.

There are multiple different types of glaucoma. The most common type is open-angle glaucoma, which occurs when the drainage angle between the cornea and iris remain open, but your eye is suffering from other drainage issues. Angle-closure glaucoma is caused by a bulging iris that blocks the drainage angle. You may also have Normal-tension glaucoma, which happens when your eye pressure is normal, but the optic nerve is still damaged. In addition, Pigmentary glaucoma can develop when pigment detaches from the iris and prevents fluid drainage.

What are the Symptoms of Glaucoma?

Symptoms of glaucoma vary depending on the type of glaucoma. Open-angle glaucoma forms gradually and you may not notice symptoms at first. Eventually it will begin to form blind spots in the peripheral vision, which spread to the central vision. Normal-tension glaucoma also has similar symptoms. However, Angle-closure glaucoma produces more serious symptoms, including severe headache and eye pain, eye redness, blurry vision, nausea, and vomiting. And if you have Pigmentary glaucoma, you may experience halos around lights and loss of peripheral vision. 

What Treatments are Available for Glaucoma?

There are some steps you can take to prevent glaucoma is important. Regular eye examinations and using proper eye protection can decrease your risk of developing glaucoma or ensure that it is caught early. If you are diagnosed with the disease, various treatments are available. Prescription eyedrops and oral medications can help reduce the pressure on your optic nerve. In some cases, surgery or laser therapy may be necessary to lower the pressure. Our optometrists can help recommend the treatment that is best for you.

Contact us for an Appointment Today

If you are experiencing symptoms of glaucoma, let our team at Livermore Optometry Group in Livermore, CA, help. After an eye exam, we can provide the necessary treatment that will reduce vision loss and help you see more clearly. To learn about our treatments or to schedule your appointment, call our office at (925) 447-3883 today. When you need an optometrist near me, we are happy to assist!