Glaucoma FAQs

Glaucoma is a condition that can impact many Americans, even to the point of complete vision loss. As there’s no cure, early detection and treatment are key. Learn more about this condition and its signs with the following questions answered by our team at Legacy Optical in Hampton Bays, NY.

Glaucoma FAQs

What Is Glaucoma and What Causes It?

Glaucoma is a term used to describe several conditions that affect the optic nerve and can cause permanent vision loss. This nerve is responsible for communicating visual information to the brain. If it’s damaged, it severely affects the ability to see clearly – or at all. High intraocular pressure that occurs when the fluids with in the eye cannot drain properly can cause glaucoma.

What Are the Symptoms?

Not everyone notices symptoms – especially in the early stages. That’s why it can be important to see your optometrist annually for a comprehensive eye exam. There are some symptoms to watch for, though, including severe headaches and eye pain, blurry vision, nausea and vomiting, and noticing halos around lights. If you do these symptoms, don’t wait until your annual eye exam. Schedule a visit with an optometrist as soon as possible.

Am I at Risk of Glaucoma?

Anyone can develop glaucoma, but there are some risk factors that indicate a higher chance. For example, if glaucoma runs in your family, you have diabetes, have injured your eye in the past, or are over 40, you are at a higher risk of developing glaucoma.

How Is It Diagnosed?

An optometrist may complete several tests to determine whether you have glaucoma or are at risk of it occurring. These tests may include measuring your intraocular pressure, completing a computerized visual field map, and examining the surface of the optic nerves.

What Glaucoma Treatment Is Available?

Unfortunately, the vision damaged caused by glaucoma cannot be cured but the condition itself can be managed and progression can be slowed. Eye drops are a common glaucoma treatment and are often utilized to ease pressure in the eyes. Surgery might also be used to help increase fluid flow or break up fluid blockage. The type of treatment you need will depend on the type of glaucoma you have and how far it has progressed. Though we do not offer surgery, we can help recommend you to a surgeon that does.

Schedule Your Glaucoma Eye Exam with a Hampton Bays, NY, Optometrist on Our Team

Concerned about developing glaucoma? Let us help. Call (631) 728-3132 to make an appointment with our team at Legacy Optical today.

 

Our Location

Hours of Operation

Monday

8:00 am - 5:30 pm

Tuesday

8:00 am - 6:30 pm

Wednesday

9:00 am - 5:30 pm

Thursday

9:00 am - 5:30 pm

Friday

9:00 am - 5:30 pm

Saturday

Open 2 Saturday's Per Month from 9:00 AM-1:00 PM -Please call in advance to ensure we are open.

Sunday

Closed

Monday
8:00 am - 5:30 pm
Tuesday
8:00 am - 6:30 pm
Wednesday
9:00 am - 5:30 pm
Thursday
9:00 am - 5:30 pm
Friday
9:00 am - 5:30 pm
Saturday
Open 2 Saturday's Per Month from 9:00 AM-1:00 PM -Please call in advance to ensure we are open.
Sunday
Closed