subject: Visiting Optometrists For Routine Eye Exams To Avoid Glaucoma [print this page] Glaucoma is a group of diseases that wreaks havoc to the optic nerve. The optic nerve is the eye part responsible for transmitting electric impulses and images from the retina to the brain. When eye pressure becomes too high, optic nerve damages occurs, deteriorating one's vision. If glaucoma is left untreated for a long period, it is likely to result in blindness.
Unfortunately, glaucoma often goes undetected until it causes irreversible damage to the eye. In fact, the disease has been called the sneak thief of sight because no symptoms appear in the early stages of glaucoma. A possible sign of glaucoma is fluctuating vision and peripheral vision difficulties. Also, there are some instances when glaucoma causes severe eye pain, headache, nausea, blurry vision, vomiting, and seeing rainbow-like halos around lights.
Glaucoma typically occurs when large amounts of fluids build up in the eye, giving it a higher pressure than it can normally withstand. For example, imagine your eyes as a garden hose with water flowing in it. If you put a plug in the hose, water pressure builds and eventually damages the hose. However, there are instances when people who have high pressure in their eyes won't have glaucoma. This is called ocular hypertension, which is an eye condition caused by high intraocular pressure.
Therefore, the importance of taking routine eye exams should not be taken lightly. Eye exams are crucial to detect possible eye problems before they cause major damage. The American Optometric Association in fact recommends that an adult should visit an established optometrist Burnbaby is known for every two years for regular eye exams. The frequency of visits increases if the patient has increased risk factors for eye diseases.
An optometrist Burnbaby BC residents go to is the primary eye care practitioner. Optometrists diagnose vision problems and eye diseases, prescribe medication, perform minor procedures, administer treatment before and after surgery, and prescribe corrective glasses and contact lenses. If your condition is beyond the expertise of an optometrist, you may then need the services of ophthalmologists.
Choosing a Burnbaby optometrist should be done with the same level of care as choosing a physician. It is important to select a professional that meets your specific needs. Ask friends and relatives for referrals, or browse the Internet for a list of specialists in your area. Do not forget to perform intensive background and track record checks to avoid contact with fraudulent practitioners.
