If you've been told you need glaucoma surgery or are experiencing signs of glaucoma, you might be scared and in need of an eye doctor for further treatment. At Karns Vision, we're here to help you stop your search for an "Eye doctor near me" if you live in Knoxville, TN. Read on below to see how our optometrist can help you experience relief, improve your symptoms, and your quality of life. Although we do not offer glaucoma surgery, we can provide consultation and help you make your next steps.
What Is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is an eye condition that gradually steals your vision. It usually occurs when the normal fluid pressure inside the eyes rises. Too much pressure can damage the optic nerve, which transmits images to your brain. Glaucoma is more common in older adults and in African Americans.
There are two main types of glaucoma:
- Open-angle glaucoma: The most common type of glaucoma, open-angle occurs gradually and painlessly. Vision loss from open-angle glaucoma is usually gradual.
- Angle-closure glaucoma: Angle-closure, also called narrow-angle or acute, occurs when there is a sudden rise in fluid pressure inside the eye. Angle-closure glaucoma is much less common than open-angle but can be more serious.
What Are Signs of Glaucoma?
The early stages of glaucoma typically have no symptoms. That's why it is important to have regular eye exams by an optometrist or ophthalmologist. A comprehensive eye exam can detect glaucoma before you experience symptoms or notice any vision loss. However, some symptoms can include:
- Gradually worsening vision in one or both eyes
- Halos around lights
- Eye pain or discomfort
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Blurred vision
These symptoms can also be caused by other eye conditions or health problems. If you have any of these symptoms, see an optometrist for an eye exam and a possible glaucoma surgery recommendation.
How Does Glaucoma Surgery Work?
If you have glaucoma, an optometrist on our team may recommend surgery to help improve the drainage of fluid in your eye and lower the pressure. There are several types of glaucoma surgery but the type of surgery you undergo will be based your specific case.
Get Help with Glaucoma from an “Eye Doctor Near Me” on Our Optometry Team
Don't let glaucoma control your life. Schedule an appointment with an optometry specialist on our team for further treatment. We'll work with you to create a treatment plan that is right for you and helps you experience better vision. Call us at (865) 247-7715 for Karns Vision in Knoxville, TN.