Understanding Glaucoma: Early Detection Is Key

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of irreversible vision loss worldwide, often progressing without noticeable symptoms until significant damage has occurred. Because its early stages typically go undetected, prioritizing regular medical eye exams is essential to protecting your long-term vision. Our eye doctors in Santa Monica, CA provide comprehensive glaucoma evaluations to help detect and manage this serious condition as early as possible.

What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, the part of the eye responsible for sending visual information to your brain. While increased eye pressure is often a contributing factor, glaucoma can also occur with normal pressure. The most common type, open-angle glaucoma, progresses slowly and painlessly, which makes early diagnosis even more critical.

Who Is at Risk?

Although anyone can develop glaucoma, certain individuals are more likely to be affected, including:

•           Adults over age 40

•           Individuals with a family history of glaucoma

•           People with diabetes or high blood pressure

•           Those with severe nearsightedness

•           Individuals of African, Hispanic, or Asian descent

Routine screenings are especially important if you fall into any of these risk groups.

Why Early Detection Matters

Glaucoma-related vision loss cannot be restored once it occurs, but early detection can help preserve the sight you have. Diagnostic tools used during glaucoma evaluations in Santa Monica include:

•           Measurement of intraocular pressure

•           Optic nerve imaging and assessment

•           Visual field testing

•           Corneal thickness measurement

These advanced tests allow us to detect subtle changes long before symptoms arise.

Treatment Options for Glaucoma

While there is currently no cure for glaucoma, treatments are available to help slow disease progression and protect your remaining vision. For many patients, prescription eye drops are the first line of defense to help lower eye pressure and support optic nerve health.

If more advanced intervention is needed, we’ll refer you to a trusted glaucoma specialist for treatments such as:

•           Laser therapy to improve fluid drainage

•           Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS)

Our role is to detect glaucoma early, begin appropriate care, and ensure you receive the highest level of specialized treatment if the condition progresses.

Schedule a Glaucoma Evaluation in Santa Monica

Glaucoma can have a major impact on daily life, but with proactive care and early intervention, you can maintain good vision for years to come. Our eye doctors in Santa Monica are committed to providing thorough medical eye exams and ongoing monitoring to safeguard your eye health.

If you are overdue for an eye exam or have concerns about glaucoma, contact Ocean Park Optometry to schedule a glaucoma evaluation today. Contact our office in Santa Monica, California, by calling (310) 452-1039 to book an appointment.