Wednesday, January 24, 2018

When Seeking Treatment For Glaucoma San Antonio TX Residents Need An Ophthalmologist

By Michael Harris


Most people never think about the fact that it is a tremendous advantage to be able to see clearly. People that cannot see well or are blind have a very distinct disadvantage. Not only do they have to depend upon others to cope, but they also have to miss out on some of the greatest pleasures of life. There are numerous conditions that can cause deteriorating eyesight, but many of them can be treated. When suffering from glaucoma San Antonio TX residents need to seek professional help straight away.

This serious disease occurs when the optic nerves that connects the retina with the brain become damaged. There are, in fact, more than a million of these nerves. If this damage becomes severe, the patient will become blind. Unfortunately, the disease cannot be cured and damage already done cannot be reversed. However, when diagnosed at an early stage the disease can be controlled and managed.

There are a number of risk factors that can lead to the development of this disease. Any family history of this condition places one at risk. African Americans older than forty and Mexican Americans are particularly high risk groups. Anyone at risk, or people that experience some of the symptoms should consult a ophthalmologist without delay. Tests will reveal whether the condition is present.

People should be aware of the early symptoms that may indicate the presence of this dread disease. Sufferers often experience tunnel vision, they lose their peripheral vision and they see halos when they look at lights. These symptoms are by no means a definite indication that glaucoma has developed, but they should definitely prompt an immediate appointment with an ophthalmologist. This is especially true for those in high risk groups.

Ophthalmologists employ a variety of tests to diagnose the disease and to determine the state of its development. The most important of these tests is the dilated eye tests. Special eye drops cause the pupils to dilate. Very strong magnifying lenses are then used to inspect the eye to determine whether there is any damage to the optic nerves. Other problems can also be identified in this manner.

There are several treatment options. While the disease cannot be cured or the existing damage reversed, much can be done to slow down the development of the condition. The most common treatment is the use of pills and eye drops to lower the eye pressure. The most common problem experienced by ophthalmologists is patients that do not use their medication strictly as prescribed.

When the pressure inside the eye is intolerably high, surgical options may be considered in order to drain fluid from the yes. This is not a permanent solution, however, Patients will still have to keep on taking medication on a daily basis and they will have to report for tests at regular intervals. One modern procedure involves the implantation of tiny little shunts in in the eyes to continually drain excess fluids.

One can only marvel at the many advances that has been made in medical research. Perhaps, in the not too distant future, this debilitating disease will be cured. In the meantime, millions of sufferers experience better eyesight due to existing treatment methods.




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