At Los Angles Vision Center, we provide comprehensive eye care services to the residents of Los Angeles, CA. Our experienced team of ophthalmologists has the knowledge and tools to treat every eye condition, from routine visits to injuries to eye diseases like glaucoma. Following are the answers to several questions we frequently receive regarding glaucoma.

What is glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a condition where the fluid inside your eye (aqueous humor) does not drain as it should. This build-up of fluid creates increased pressure inside the eye that affects the optic nerve which can lead to pain and blindness. Too often, glaucoma goes unnoticed until the symptoms become severe. Unfortunately, the effects of untreated glaucoma are irreversible. The good news is that a regular trip to the eye doctor can help to catch the signs of glaucoma early. And with proper treatment, you can lower the risk of devastating damage and vision loss.

What causes glaucoma?

Glaucoma has many causes. Glaucoma most often occurs in patients who are over 40 and affects African Americans more often than other groups. Glaucoma is often associated with diabetes. Risk factors that increase the chances of a glaucoma diagnosis include:

• Age (over 40)
• Family history of glaucoma
• Poor vision
• Use of steroid medications
• Underlying medical conditions (high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, sickle cell anemia)
• Preexisting eye conditions (thin corneas, high eye pressure, past injuries)

What are the symptoms of glaucoma?

In the early phases, people with glaucoma may have mild symptoms or no symptoms at all. As the disease progresses, you may experience:

• Vision loss
• Redness
• Eye Pain
• Seeing halos or blind spots
• Eyes that have a hazy appearance (especially in young children)
• Stomach upset and vomiting

If you notice any of these symptoms, call to make an appointment with one of the optometrists at Fillmore Eye Clinic right away.

How do you test for glaucoma?

Glaucoma testing is painless and can be done at your regular eye care visit. Aside from checking for changes in your vision, your eye doctor may use drops to dilate your eyes so they can see the optic nerve and look for signs of damage. They might take photographs that can help identify changes from year to year. They may also check the pressure in your eye using a tonometry test.

How is glaucoma treated?

Glaucoma treatment depends on the severity and type of glaucoma you have. Common treatments include eye drops, oral medications, and eye surgery. The ophthalmologists at Fillmore Eye Clinic can help you manage your glaucoma symptoms and reduce your risk of sight loss.

Glaucoma Treatment in Los Angles 

Call Los Angeles Vision Clinic today at (323) 934-2020 for more information or to schedule an appointment with our eye doctor.