What You Need to Know About Glaucoma

Glaucoma is an eye condition caused by damage to the eye’s optic nerve. The optic nerve is the “cable” that connects the eye to the brain. A healthy optic nerve is needed to provide you with good vision. Glaucoma usually results from eye pressure that is too high for the eye to withstand. This eye pressure then damages the optic nerve and can result in vision loss if untreated.

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness. While it is most common over the age of 60, it can happen to anyone at any age. Glaucoma can often show no symptoms, so many people do not even know they have glaucoma. This is why an annual comprehensive eye exam is so important. The earlier the diagnosis is made, the better the chance of slowing the progression.

To test you for glaucoma at our offices, we will measure your eye pressure and assess the health and appearance of your optic nerve. Some people require additional testing to further determine whether you have glaucoma. Most of these tests are done in our office and are very simple, non-invasive, and painless.

If you suspect that you may have glaucoma, have already been diagnosed, or just want to make sure you do not have glaucoma, contact University Eye Associates in Charlotte, Harrisburg (Rocky River), or Davidson for a comprehensive eye exam. We are a full-service optometry office that is dedicated to finding the perfect solution to your individual needs.