As part of Glaucoma Awareness month in January, we strongly recommend that those at risk should have a complete eye exam by an ophthalmologist at least every one to two years. Although glaucoma cannot be cured, early detection and treatment can help preserve vision.
Glaucoma is a condition in which the optic nerve, responsible for transmitting visual information from the eye to the brain is damaged. Although the nerve damage is usually associated with elevated pressure inside the eye, other factors can be involved. Glaucoma is an eye disease that gradually may begin with the loss of peripheral vision and then advance to a reduction in central vision. With its painless and gradual loss of vision, glaucoma may have no early warning signs, but it can be detected through a comprehensive dilated eye exam. However, vision loss from glaucoma can be prevented if it is detected and treated in time.
Who has a higher risk for glaucoma?
· Everyone over the age of 60
· African-Americans over age of 40
· People with a family history of glaucoma
· Hispanics
· People with other health conditions, such as diabetes
· Individuals that have experienced a serious eye injury.
Symptoms?
First there may be no symptoms, but as the disease progresses a person with glaucoma may notice:
· Blurred vision
· Loss of peripheral vision
· Difficulty focusing on objects
· Presence of halos around lights
Glaucoma is a lifelong condition. Patients and their doctors work together to agree on a treatment plan that offers the patient the best chance of preserving his or her vision.
