Columbia Optometrist Apex EyeCare Warns About Risk Factors and Symptoms of Glaucoma, Which Can Cause Blindness

COLUMBIA, S.C., Dec. 26, 2016 -- Dentsville and Columbia optometry, Apex EyeCare, would like to alert clients and area residents about the dangers of the eye condition glaucoma. If glaucoma goes undetected, unchecked and untreated, the disease can eventually lead to total blindness. However, regular eye exams from a Columbia optometrist can greatly reduce the chance of this outcome. Vision exams provide the opportunity for detection and effective interventions that can preserve and protect vision and eye health.

Glaucoma is caused by the buildup of dangerous pressure within the eye that increases over time, causing damage to the optic nerve. The most common risk factors for glaucoma include a family history of the disease, older age, being of Asian, African American or Native Alaskan heritage, a past eye disease or injury, eye tumor, or having had heart disease, diabetes or high blood pressure. Those who have made long-term use of cortisone or steroids are also at increased risk for glaucoma.

Glaucoma has very few symptoms, making the disease extremely difficult to detect without the help of a professional optometrist. This is why regular routine eye exams from a Columbia eye doctor are so crucial. One glaucoma symptom is a noticeable reduction in peripheral vision and visual acuity. However, once this vision loss has occurred, the disease has already advanced, and the loss of sight experienced will not be able to be restored.

Fortunately, glaucoma is manageable if the condition is caught early and then treated and managed appropriately. The treatments for glaucoma include the use of eye drops, which help to lower pressure within the eye and on the optic nerve. Regular examinations help to verify that the eye tissues are stable and healthy. Visual field tests also allow for the assessment of peripheral vision and pupil dilation so that eye tissues on the back portion of the eye can be checked as well.

Columbia optometrist Dr. Michael McClay MA, OD, FAAO, the founder of Apex EyeCare says, “Regular exams and preventative care are crucial to identify and treat glaucoma early. Left unchecked, glaucoma can rob people of their vision and may eventually lead to total blindness. We can help to identify those persons who are at the highest risk for this insidious disease and provide effective treatments. We encourage everyone to book an eye exam at least once per year so that they can receive regular glaucoma screening.”

Columbia and Dentsville optometrist Apex EyeCare is located at 7499 Parklane Road in Columbia, South Carolina. In addition to the city of Columbia, Apex EyeCare serves Dentsville and the surrounding communities. Those in the area who would like more information or those who wish to book an appointment may call (803) 757-0667. Additional information about the Columbia eye doctor is also available at their website at http://www.apexeyecare.net/.

Apex EyeCare, (803) 757-0667