Glaucoma is an eye condition that may worsen over time. This ailment causes damage to the eye’s optic nerve. One symptom of this condition is a buildup of pressure inside the eye. It’s essential to communicate and ask a glaucoma specialist in Naples, FL questions if you’re experiencing symptoms of this ailment.
Here are four important questions you can ask the specialist for advice:
What Glaucoma Do I Have?
Glaucoma is an umbrella term used for a group of eye diseases. If left unchecked, it may lead to severe damage to the optic nerve. Failure to seek the help of a specialist may even lead to blindness. Ask your glaucoma specialist in Naples, FL, to know which glaucoma class you have.
Here are the different types of glaucoma to give you an idea about these conditions:
1. Primary Open Angle Glaucoma (POAG)
The eye drainage canals become blocked when the patient has POAG. Also, the accumulated fluid in the eye can cause unwanted pressure, which will then cause damage to the optic nerve. Eventually, it may cause a slow and gradual loss of vision.
2. Angle Closure Glaucoma
The aqueous or eye fluid cannot drain properly from the optic nerve. So, the entrance to the eye’s drainage canal either becomes closed or too narrow. Patients with angle closure glaucoma may feel eye pressure with pupil dilation.
3. Normal Tension Glaucoma
Also called Low-Pressure Glaucoma, this type damages the optic nerve even if there’s a lack of excessive eye pressure. This condition may come from cardiovascular disease or family history.
4. Secondary Glaucoma
Glaucomas that come from a primary condition may surface in specific individuals. These ailments may include diabetes, tumors, and cataracts.
Ask a glaucoma specialist in Naples if you’re in the area and if you have questions about the different types of this condition. You can start your search for a reliable specialist from this site.
What Are the Treatment Options Available?
The Naples glaucoma specialist may recommend a specific treatment for your glaucoma. Remember, the available options for your condition may differ for each medical facility. Nonetheless, here are a few options that the specialist may suggest:
Eye Medications
The specialist may recommend particular medications that may ease tolerability. Many medicines have good effectiveness, as long as it comes from a trustworthy manufacturer and provider.
However, there are certain factors that may make glaucoma medicines a wrong suggestion. The medication may contain compounds that may cause the patient to experience allergic reactions. Remember, don’t attempt to self-medicate without the approved prescription and supervision of a certified glaucoma specialist to avoid complications.
Laser Trabeculoplasty
This glaucoma treatment option may be available in specific clinics around Naples. The procedure helps relieve the patient from the condition. Also, it can temporarily do away with the need of the patient to take drops. Still, the effects of this treatment may wear off over time.
Eye Surgery
Certain surgical operations may be an ideal choice for patients who obtained little to no positive results from medicines or laser trabeculoplasty procedures. Ask your chosen glaucoma specialist if they offer surgeries that may significantly help in improving the condition.
Are There Ways to Reduce the Effects of Glaucoma?
Glaucoma, if left untreated, may lead to retinal ganglion cell death. Also, it may include the following:
- Oxidative damage
- Glial hyperactivation
- Low-grade inflammation
- Mitochondrial dysfunction
If you already have glaucoma, the specialist may suggest methods to help reduce its harmful effects. Specific techniques may not require specialized equipment or products. A few examples are:
- Eating a healthy diet rich in components for eye health.
- Caring for corrective eye lenses.
- Limiting caffeine intake.
- Ensuring proper hydration.
- Exercise regularly and safely.
- Sleeping with an elevated head.
- Sleeping for six to eight hours per day.
- Taking prescribed medications.
What are the Common Symptoms of Glaucoma?
If you’re unsure if you have glaucoma or not, it’s best to ask a specialist about it. Nonetheless, here are a few signs to watch out for if you think you have this eye condition:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Severe eye pain
- Blurry vision
- Red-eye
- Halos forming when looking at lights
Don’t be afraid to ask a certified glaucoma specialist in Naples, FL questions. Ask about the symptoms, medications, potential side effects, and possible treatments. If a particular treatment method seems unfit for you, tell the specialist about it. Don’t hide or tweak information when talking to the expert about this condition. If you do, the specialist may give you a wrong prescription, which might worsen the condition.