Eye Care, Eye Exam, and Glaucoma Treatment Near You

Glaucoma is one of the most common and most serious classes of eye conditions that can affect anyone, regardless of age and sex. Progressed glaucoma can lead to irreversible vision loss if it is not diagnosed and managed properly with the help of an eye doctor near you, such as an optometrist. If you're in need of an eye exam, ongoing eye care, or specialized glaucoma treatment near you from an optometrist in Ocala, FL, turn to Ritz & Johnson.

What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is actually classified as a group of eye diseases and conditions that ultimately affect and damage the eye's optic nerve. When damage occurs, this can lead to intraocular pressure, or IOP and reduced vision. The optic nerve in the eye transmits visual information directly to the eye, which is why reducing pressure and diagnosing glaucoma as quickly as possible via ongoing eye care and a routine eye exam from a trusted optometrist is so crucial.

Types of Glaucoma

There are different types of glaucoma, which can be distinguished by unique characteristics, such as:

●             Normal-Tension Glaucoma: This form of glaucoma is typically caused by damage to the optic nerve despite normal eye pressure levels. Poor blood flow may be a cause of this form of glaucoma.

●             Secondary Glaucoma: Secondary glaucoma may occur as a result of eye surgery, injuries, inflammation, or tumors.

●             Open-Angle Glaucoma: This is the most common form of glaucoma, which causes the eye's drainage canals to become blocked, increasing nerve damage and adding to the intraocular pressure the individual experiences.

●             Angle-Closure Glaucoma: Angle-closure glaucoma occurs when there is a rapid increase in eye pressure, often due to a sudden blockage of drainage canals.

Signs and Symptoms of Glaucoma

Some of the most notable and prevalent symptoms of glaucoma include:

●             Genetic History: Family history and a genetic predisposition to developing glaucoma will significantly increase your chances of experiencing vision distortion or loss.

●             Age: Those who are over the age of 60 have a much greater risk of developing eye conditions such as glaucoma.

●             Injuries: Eye injuries and blunt-force trauma may contribute to the development of glaucoma.

●             Ethnicity: In some instances, Asians, Hispanics, and African Americans may have a greater risk of developing glaucoma.

Get Eye Care, Eye Exam, Optometrist Services, and Glaucoma Treatment Near You from an Eye Doctor Near You

If you believe you may be suffering from glaucoma, but you're unsure of where to turn, Ritz & Johnson is here for you. For a trusted optometrist who will provide you with the examinations and eye care you need in Ocala, FL, contact Ritz & Johnson today. Call us at (352) 732-7900 for eye care, an eye exam, optometrist services, and glaucoma treatment near you from an eye doctor near you.