Glaucoma: Get the simple eye test!
Experts call glaucoma “the sneak thief of sight” because there are no symptoms in
the early stages such as blurred vision, a feeling of pressure in or behind the eye or
pain. When a person finally notices a change in their sight over 40% of their optic
nerve (the nerve that transmits the light from our eyes back to our brain) may be
destroyed. This damage is permanent. Once the individual sees symptoms it can be
difficult to prevent more damage, vision loss or potential blindness.
Experts estimate that over 3 million Americans have glaucoma and 50% of them
don’t know it. It accounts for 9 -12% of all blindness. As Americans age the
Glaucoma Research Foundation predicts an epidemic of blindness looming. The
purpose of Glaucoma Awareness Month is to educate people about the importance
of regular eye exams to preserve vision. Many people are unaware that a simple and
painless test at the eye doctor’s office can determine if a person has or is developing
glaucoma. Treatment can be as simple as an eye drop once a day.
Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness in the world, according to the
World Health Organization. Glaucoma can affect people of all ages but is most
common in middle aged and the elderly. Those at higher risk include people of
African, Asian, and Hispanic descent. Other high-risk groups include: people over 60,
family members of those already diagnosed, diabetics, and people who are severely
nearsighted.
Although active research to cure glaucoma continues, as of yet there is no cure.
However there are excellent medications, and surgery for more severe cases, that
can slow or prevent additional vision loss. The key to preventing permanent vision
loss is early detection so treatment can begin as soon as possible.
Remember, you cannot tell if you have glaucoma in the early stages but your eye
doctor can often detect it before damage even begins. That’s why making time to
schedule regular comprehensive eyes exams is so important.
Author Doug Herriott, OD, FSLS, is an optometrist with Eyecare Associates of
Lee's Summit. Dr. Herriott also serves as a member of the Lee’s Summit Health
Education Advisory Board, a mayor-appointed, volunteer board that promotes
and advocates community health by assessing health issues, educating the
public and government agencies, developing plans to address health issues,
encouraging partnerships and evaluating the outcomes.
the early stages such as blurred vision, a feeling of pressure in or behind the eye or
pain. When a person finally notices a change in their sight over 40% of their optic
nerve (the nerve that transmits the light from our eyes back to our brain) may be
destroyed. This damage is permanent. Once the individual sees symptoms it can be
difficult to prevent more damage, vision loss or potential blindness.
Experts estimate that over 3 million Americans have glaucoma and 50% of them
don’t know it. It accounts for 9 -12% of all blindness. As Americans age the
Glaucoma Research Foundation predicts an epidemic of blindness looming. The
purpose of Glaucoma Awareness Month is to educate people about the importance
of regular eye exams to preserve vision. Many people are unaware that a simple and
painless test at the eye doctor’s office can determine if a person has or is developing
glaucoma. Treatment can be as simple as an eye drop once a day.
Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness in the world, according to the
World Health Organization. Glaucoma can affect people of all ages but is most
common in middle aged and the elderly. Those at higher risk include people of
African, Asian, and Hispanic descent. Other high-risk groups include: people over 60,
family members of those already diagnosed, diabetics, and people who are severely
nearsighted.
Although active research to cure glaucoma continues, as of yet there is no cure.
However there are excellent medications, and surgery for more severe cases, that
can slow or prevent additional vision loss. The key to preventing permanent vision
loss is early detection so treatment can begin as soon as possible.
Remember, you cannot tell if you have glaucoma in the early stages but your eye
doctor can often detect it before damage even begins. That’s why making time to
schedule regular comprehensive eyes exams is so important.
Author Doug Herriott, OD, FSLS, is an optometrist with Eyecare Associates of
Lee's Summit. Dr. Herriott also serves as a member of the Lee’s Summit Health
Education Advisory Board, a mayor-appointed, volunteer board that promotes
and advocates community health by assessing health issues, educating the
public and government agencies, developing plans to address health issues,
encouraging partnerships and evaluating the outcomes.
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