How Can You Lower Your Risk of Glaucoma?
&srotate=0)
Did you know that glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness worldwide? This eye disease often goes undetected until it's too late. While there is no way to prevent glaucoma, there are ways to lower your risk and protect your vision in Tuscaloosa, AL.
Our professionals at inVision Ophthalmology Tuscaloosa can diagnose and manage glaucoma, as well as provide valuable guidance on reducing your risk factors. Call to book an appointment with Dr. Young Choi and take control of your eye health today.
What is glaucoma, and why is it a concern?
Glaucoma is a complex and multifactorial disease. It occurs when there is damage to the optic nerve, which leads to progressive vision loss and, eventually, blindness if left untreated.
Open-angle glaucoma, the most common form of the disease, presents with blind spots in your peripheral vision. Acute angle-closure glaucoma may cause halos around lights, blurry vision, and eye pain. Glaucoma is a concern because it often has no symptoms until vision loss has already happened, making early detection and treatment essential.
Risk factors for glaucoma
Anyone can develop glaucoma, but some people are at a higher risk. These include individuals over 40 years old, those with a family history of glaucoma, and people of African or Hispanic descent. Other risk factors include thin corneas and medical conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure.
If you fall into any of these categories, be proactive about your eye health and get regular eye exams with an ophthalmologist. Dr. Choi and his team at inVision Ophthalmology Tuscaloosa can assess your risk for glaucoma and recommend a personalized plan to help lower your chances of developing the disease.
Steps to lower your risk of glaucoma
As we mentioned, there is no surefire way to prevent glaucoma in Tuscaloosa, AL. However, patients can reduce their risk by:
- Booking regular eye exams: Adults should have a comprehensive eye exam every 1 – 2 years, and those at higher risk may need more frequent check-ups.
- Knowing your family history: If you have a close relative with glaucoma, be sure to inform Dr. Choi so we can monitor your eyes more closely.
- Avoiding smoking: Smoking is linked to an increased risk of glaucoma and other eye diseases.
- Managing medical conditions: Conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure contribute to glaucoma, so keep them under control through proper management and treatment.
- Being mindful of eye injuries: Trauma or injury to the eye can lead to glaucoma. If you participate in activities that put your eyes at risk, be sure to wear protective eyewear.
What happens if you have glaucoma?
If you are diagnosed with glaucoma, our team at inVision Ophthalmology Tuscaloosa will work with you to develop a comprehensive treatment plan. Depending on the severity of your condition, this may include eye drops or laser procedures. It's also important to follow up regularly with Dr. Choi and adhere to your prescribed treatments. This can help prevent glaucoma progression.
Get ahead of glaucoma with inVision Ophthalmology Tuscaloosa
Your eye health is our top priority at inVision Ophthalmology Tuscaloosa. Whether you are concerned about glaucoma or need a routine eye exam in Tuscaloosa, AL, Dr. Young Choi is here to help. Contact us to book an appointment and take a step forward in protecting your vision. Early detection and treatment make all the difference when it comes to eye diseases.