You have probably heard of someone or may even know someone personally who has glaucoma. Glaucoma is an eye disease that slowly damages the optic nerve and can lead to vision loss or even blindness. At West Village Eyecare serving Manhattan, we are experts in eye disease diagnosis and management. If you have concerns about glaucoma, call our office to schedule an appointment with one of our NYC Optometry specialists.
Risk Factors for Glaucoma
The first primary reason that people suffer from glaucoma is age. Glaucoma is most common in people over the age of 60. African Americans are also at a higher risk for glaucoma than any other race. If you have a family member who has glaucoma, you are also at an increased risk. Other risk factors include:
- If you've had a previous eye injury
- Suffering from diabetes
- Long time smokers
Glaucoma Types
There are two types of this eye disease: open-angle and angle-closure. Open-angle is the most common type, while angle closure is more serious but less common. Open-angle glaucoma develops gradually and has no symptoms during the early stages. This is why it’s important to have regular eye exams so that your eye doctor can detect the disease early on and begin treatment.
Angle closure glaucoma happens when the eye’s iris bulges forward, narrowing the angle between the iris and cornea. This type of glaucoma can happen suddenly and is often accompanied by symptoms such as eye pain, blurred vision, headache, nausea, and vomiting. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately.
Diagnosis and Treatment
An eye disease diagnosis requires a comprehensive eye exam. The eyes are dilated to get a good look at the optic nerve. A machine is used to measure eye pressure, which is one of the main indicators of glaucoma. Sometimes, additional tests such as visual field testing or imaging of the eye may be necessary.
If glaucoma is detected, we can develop a treatment plan. A typical treatment can include eye drops, pills, laser surgery, or traditional surgery. Our eye doctors will work with you to determine the best course of treatment based on the severity of your disease and your individual needs.
Make an Appointment with Our Optometrists in Manhattan
At West Village Eyecare, we are committed to providing our patients with the highest quality eye care possible. If you believe you may be experiencing symptoms of glaucoma or have concerns about any other eye conditions, call our team today at (212) 242-6592 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.