Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness in the United States and worldwide. Glaucoma is an eye disease that damages the optic nerve and can result in blindness and vision loss. Early detection and treatment can protect your eyes against serious vision loss.
Although many optometrists can diagnose glaucoma, the sight-threatening disease is best managed by an optometric glaucoma specialist.
What is a Glaucoma Specialist?
An optometrist is trained and licensed to treat eye diseases and write prescriptions as needed, in addition to diagnosing the need for visual corrections such as glasses, contact lenses, and refractive surgery.
An optometric glaucoma specialist is an optometrist who has undergone additional training specific to treating patients with glaucoma.
A glaucoma specialist can prescribe oral medications in addition to the topical ophthalmic medications prescribed by a therapeutic optometrist.
Who Treats Glaucoma?
Most optometrists and glaucoma specialists can diagnose and treat glaucoma. Diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma is a key part of training for optometrists.
Part of every comprehensive eye exam includes measurement of eye pressure and checks the optic nerve. With the results of the exam, most ophthalmologists and optometrists are able to make an initial assessment and can determine whether you have glaucoma. Treatment generally begins with medications to reduce eye pressure.
A glaucoma specialist can determine the specific stage of your disease, estimate your risk for vision loss and blindness, and decide whether to initiate treatment.
Contact our locations to learn more about glaucoma and schedule a comprehensive eye exam.
At Eye Trends, we put your family's needs first. Talk to us about how we can help you maintain healthy vision. Call us today: 936-441-3937 or book an appointment online to see one of our Conroe eye doctors.
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