January is Glaucoma Awareness Month – learn how to protect your sight!
Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness in the United States.
The Facts
- Glaucoma affects over an estimated 4 million Americans
- Half of those affected may be unaware they have the disease
- Glaucoma develops slowly, with no initial symptoms
- Glaucoma cannot currently be cured, but it can be managed
- Glaucoma is found most often during a dilated eye exam
Definition of Glaucoma and Cause
- Glaucoma: Disease causing gradual degeneration of cells that make up the optic nerve
- The optic nerve carries visual information from the eye to the brain
- As the nerve cells die, vision is slowly lost; this is often unnoticeable until a significant amount of nerve damage has occurred
- Caused by fluid buildup in the eye’s anterior chamber, which results in increased pressure in the eye
- Unless this pressure is controlled, it may cause loss of vision
Patients at Greatest Risk
- Adults over 60 years of age
- African Americans over age 40
- Anyone with a family history of glaucoma
Managing Glaucoma
- Medication: Either in the form of eye drops or oral medication designed to reduce pressure in the eye
- Laser Surgery: Makes it easier for fluid to leave the eye; patients may need to keep using glaucoma drops even with this procedure
- Surgery: Can also help fluid escape from the eye, reducing pressure. Usually reserved for patients whose pressure cannot be controlled with eye drops, oral medication, or laser surgery
What Can You Do to Protect Your Vision and Eye Health?
- Early detection and treatment of glaucoma, before it causes major vision loss, is the best way to control the disease
- Make sure to have a comprehensive dilated eye examination by your eye care professional at least every 1-2 years. If you are over age of 60 you should receive this exam annually
Source: Wisconsin Optometric Association