At Risk for Glaucoma? Signs to Watch For

Glaucoma is a condition that can do lasting damage to your eyes. In fact, glaucoma that is caught too late can cause permanent vision loss. Everyone is at risk for glaucoma, but some people have a higher level of risk than others. Seeing an eye doctor in Pittsburgh and the surrounding area on a regular basis can help protect you from this condition.

Who Is At Risk?

Many people are at risk for glaucoma. Below are some of the characteristics that can put you at particular risk for this condition:

• Members of your family have had glaucoma
• You have diabetes
• You’ve been taking steroids for a long time
• You’re over age 40
• You have an old eye injury
• You have low blood pressure or high blood pressure
• You’re of Latino, African, Asian, and Hispanic descent

Signs of Glaucoma

The signs of glaucoma can be subtle, and depending on the type of glaucoma, there may be no signs at all until some vision loss has already occurred. If you have glaucoma, here’s what to watch for:

• Eye pain
• Patchy blind spots
• Nausea
• Halos around lights
• Severe headache or eye pain

Why It’s Important to See the Eye Doctor

It’s very important to catch glaucoma in its early stages. Catching it late could mean vision loss, and these effects cannot be reversed. The Glaucoma Foundation recommends that everyone over 40 years old see their eye doctor for a comprehensive vision exam every three to four years.

Do you need an eye exam in Pittsburgh and the surrounding area? The professionals at Lappen Eye Care can help. We provide comprehensive vision exams to patients. Call today to make an appointment.