Living with Glaucoma: How Treatment Can Improve Your Quality of Life
When such a disease accounts for 6.7 million blind people worldwide, it’s no wonder glaucoma is a worldwide health crisis. If not detected and treated early, the condition can quickly take over your vision before you know it. That’s why practicing preventative health and booking regular eye appointments are so important.
How Does Glaucoma Affect Quality of Life?
The Physical Impact
Glaucoma affects patients gradually. Symptoms are unnoticeable initially, but patients may begin reporting signs of their surroundings slowly fading as time progresses. Eventually, performing daily tasks and engaging in activities that were once enjoyable now becomes difficult. The loss of peripheral vision, a common sign of glaucoma, restricts one’s ability to navigate their surroundings safely. With an inability to see the world clearly, glaucoma manifests increased dependence on others for life assistance.
The Emotional Impact
We should not overlook the correlation between glaucoma and mental health. Vision loss can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and immense stress. Adjusting to a new way of life and coping with the challenges associated with a chronic eye condition can be mentally and emotionally hard for anyone. Luckily, there are advanced treatments set in place by glaucoma specialists to specifically target the disease and help patients regain control of their lives.
Consulting a Glaucoma Specialist in Raleigh, NC
To successfully manage glaucoma and heighten your quality of life, seeking a glaucoma specialist with rich experience in diagnosing and treating the disease is essential. Don’t just go to your general doctor—find a glaucoma specialist that knows the best ways to care for you during this transition.
More specifically, most glaucoma specialists offer comprehensive screening and treatment services—in Raleigh and beyond. Look for specialists equipped with the latest technology and techniques to accurately diagnose glaucoma, determine its severity, and create tailored treatment plans. Most importantly, these experts’ regular eye tests and screenings allow for early detection and intervention, lowering the risk of irreversible damage and preserving lifelong vision.
Glaucoma Treatments
There is no cure for glaucoma. However, various treatment methods and surgeries are available to slow down the progression of the disease. Medications like eye drops are commonly prescribed to lower intraocular pressure and block further damage to the optic nerve. When medications prove insufficient alone, glaucoma surgery is the only option. Surgical options include glaucoma laser surgery, trabeculectomy, drainage implants, and other advanced procedures.
Hope Is on the Horizon
Living with glaucoma is an extra responsibility—it demands proactive management and regular eye care to get you through the day. But by scheduling routine eye exams, following your specific treatment plan, and fostering open communication with your glaucoma specialist, you can protect your future memories before they fade.
An eye care center that performs regular monitoring and updates to your treatment plan is the best choice for those looking to change their vision for the better. At Kelly Eye Center, that’s us. We are committed to protecting your vision and helping you lead a life that revolves around you, not glaucoma.
Don’t wait. Book an appointment with our glaucoma specialists in Raleigh, NC, and regain the clarity your eyes deserve.
**Please note that the suggestions provided in this blog are for general informational purposes only and may not be suitable for your specific insurance plan and glaucoma needs. It is important to consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment.
