Glaucoma Specialists in Long Beach
According to Prevent Blindness America, it’s estimated that over 4 million Americans have glaucoma making this one of the most common eye conditions in the country today. The unfortunate part is that only half know they have it. SoCal Eye has on staff a number of Glaucoma Specialists in Long Beach and can help detect and treat Glaucoma but knowing the facts and the risk factors for Glaucoma is very important for early detection.
Are you at Risk for Glaucoma?
The good news is if glaucoma is detected and treated early, its progression can be slowed or stopped. But the bad news is that people with glaucoma don’t always show symptoms and do not contact a Glaucoma Specialist early enough. That’s why it’s important to know if you’re at risk.
People over 60 Years Old:
Glaucoma is six times more common in people over 60 years of age.
Ethnicity:
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, Glaucoma is significantly more more prevalent in specific ethnic groups. (African American, Hispanic, Asian)
Family History
The most common type of glaucoma, primary open-angle glaucoma, is known to be hereditary. Doctors estimate people with a sibling who has glaucoma have almost 10 times the increased risk of developing it themselves.
High intraocular pressure:
Those with abnormally high pressure within the eye are at higher risk for glaucoma.
Steroid Use:
According to a study reported in the Journal of the American Medical Association, research has shown a connection between long-term steroid use and glaucoma.
Eye injuries:
Blunt trauma to the eye can cause traumatic glaucoma, and those who have suffered an eye injury are potentially at risk for developing secondary open-angle glaucoma.
Diabetes:
Having diabetes can increase your risk of glaucoma.
What is Glaucoma and What are the Symptoms?
Glaucoma is the name for a group of eye diseases that develop when increased fluid pressure in the eyes damages the nerve fibers in the optic nerve and retina. This damage can be gradual and those affected may not notice any loss of vision until the disease is at an advanced stage. This damage can lead to irreversible vision loss if untreated. Early detection and treatment by a Glaucoma Specialist is critical.
Glaucoma Detection and Treatment
Glaucoma is detected during the annual eye exam. The air puff test (non-contact tonometry test) is used to detect changes in fluid pressure in the eyes and is an easy and pain free way to see if a patient is at risk for glaucoma.
Depending upon the type of glaucoma, treatment may include medication (usually prescription eyedrops), laser treatment, or surgery to lower the pressure in the eye and prevent further damage to the optic nerve. While there is no cure for glaucoma, early diagnosis and continuing treatment can preserve eyesight.
SoCal Eye. Glaucoma Specialists in Long Beach.
SoCal Eye is a leading Ophthalmology Group made up of leading eye doctors serving Los Angeles and Orange County. We have Glaucoma Specialists in Long Beach working out of 2 offices in Lakewood and Los Alamitos where we perform annual eye exams every day. Our staff who can assist with early detection and treatment. Schedule your annual eye exam today.
