Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, the pathway that transmits visual information from your eye to your brain. Often referred to as the "silent thief of sight" because it can progress without noticeable symptoms in its early stages, glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness. Regular eye exams are crucial for early detection and treatment. At New Vision Optical Wilmette, we are committed to your eye health and want to raise awareness about the early signs of glaucoma.

What Causes Glaucoma?

The most common form of glaucoma, primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), develops when the fluid that nourishes the eye cannot drain properly, causing pressure to build up inside the eye. This increased pressure can damage the optic nerve, leading to vision loss. While the exact cause of POAG is unknown, certain risk factors can increase your chances of developing it, including:

•             Age (over 40)

•             Family history of glaucoma

•             African American or Hispanic descent

•             Certain medical conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure

Early Warning Signs of Glaucoma

Glaucoma can be sneaky, and often there are no noticeable symptoms in the early stages. However, there are some signs to watch out for:

•             Peripheral vision loss (gradual loss of side vision)

•             Tunnel vision (feeling like you're looking through a narrow tube)

•             Seeing halos around lights

•             Sudden eye pain (more common in acute angle-closure glaucoma)

•             Eye redness (more common in acute angle-closure glaucoma)

The Importance of Early Detection and Treatment

Early detection and treatment of glaucoma are essential to prevent vision loss. Since there's no cure for glaucoma, treatment focuses on lowering eye pressure and preventing further damage to the optic nerve. Regular comprehensive eye exams, including eye pressure measurement and optic nerve evaluation, are the best way to detect glaucoma early.

Schedule Your Eye Exam at New Vision Optical Wilmette

If you are concerned about glaucoma or haven't had a comprehensive eye exam in over a year, don't wait. Schedule an appointment with an optician near you today. At New Vision Optical Wilmette, we provide thorough eye exams to assess your eye health and detect any potential problems, including glaucoma. Call us today at (847) 251-3330 to schedule your appointment and protect your vision.