Glaucoma is a severe eye condition that usually has no symptoms but may lead to partial or full vision loss. The best prevention for glaucoma is regular testing by Dr. Aira Canlas at Sunset Optometric Center in Los Feliz, California. Men, women, and children in the Los Angeles area can schedule an evaluation for glaucoma testing by calling the friendly staff at Sunset Optometric Center or booking an appointment online.
Glaucoma is a group of eye disorders that damage the optic nerve. Each kind of glaucoma has distinct characteristics.
This type of glaucoma is the most common type of glaucoma, affecting up to 90% of men, women, and children with glaucoma. Primary glaucoma occurs when the drainage canals behind the eye become progressively clogged and slowly swell, putting pressure on the eye.
Symptoms are rare. However, if you notice patchy blind spots or have tunnel vision, immediately seek care at Sunset Optometric Center.
Other names for primary glaucoma are open-angle glaucoma and chronic glaucoma.
This type of glaucoma develops very quickly when the drainage canals are suddenly blocked, causing a dangerous rise in ocular pressure. Get immediate medical attention if you experience:
Untreated angle-closure glaucoma causes blindness. Up to 15% of people who receive treatment nevertheless go blind in at least one eye within 20 years.
This type of glaucoma damages the optic nerve, even though pressure in the eye remains normal. The cause is unknown.
This type of glaucoma is a rare, inherited condition in which babies do not develop drainage canals during gestation or the drainage canals are defective.
Glaucoma can cause blindness. If you have any of the following risk factors be sure to get tested regularly:
You optometrist may administer the following tests for glaucoma during your annual exam:
If your Sunset Optometric Center expert sees signs of glaucoma, you may need medical treatment with eye drops or drugs, laser treatment, and surgery to reduce the pressure on the optic nerve.
Damage from glaucoma cannot be corrected. Early diagnosis and treatment are your best strategies to minimize the risk of vision loss. Call Dr. Canlas at Sunset Optometric Center today or use the online form to book a glaucoma test.
