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January is Glaucoma Awareness Month
Posted by: Georgia Eye Partners in Eye Health
According to the Glaucoma Research Foundation, more than 3 million people in the United States have glaucoma. The National Eye Institute projects this number will reach 4.2 million by 2030, a 58 percent increase.
What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that gradually steal eyesight without any warning. The most common forms of glaucoma mainly affect the middle-aged and the elderly; however, glaucoma can affect people of all ages.
Vision loss is caused by damage to the optic nerve. This nerve acts like an electric cable with over a million wires. It is responsible for carrying images from the eye to the brain.
As of now, there is no cure for glaucoma just yet. However, medication or surgery can slow or prevent further vision loss from the disease. The appropriate treatment depends upon the type of glaucoma, among many other factors, in which your eye doctor will choose what is best for you. Early detection is vital to stopping the progress of the disease.
Types of Glaucoma
There are two main types of glaucoma: primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and angle-closure glaucoma. These are marked by increased intraocular pressure (IOP) or pressure inside the eye. This is called normal-tension glaucoma when optic nerve damage has occurred despite a normal IOP.
Secondary glaucoma is any case in which another disease causes or contributes to increased eye pressure, resulting in optic nerve damage and vision loss.
Risk Factors
Those at higher risk for being diagnosed with glaucoma include individuals of African, Asian, and Hispanic descent. The other high-risk groups include people over 60, family members of those already diagnosed, a diabetes diagnosis, and those individuals who are severely nearsighted people.
Regular eye exams are Important
Early detection is key to stopping the progress of glaucoma. The best prevention in protecting your sight from glaucoma is simply scheduling a comprehensive eye examination. Protect your eyesight by educating yourself about the risk factors and prioritizing scheduling a regular eye exam.
Help us spread awareness about this sight-stealing disease:
- Don’t be afraid to talk to your friends and family about glaucoma disease. If you have been diagnosed with glaucoma, don’t keep it a secret. Share your diagnosis with your family to ensure they take the necessary steps to protect their eye health.
- Spread the good news about our office and your eye doctor by referring a family member or friend to our practice.
- Don’t Be Blind Sided by Glaucoma … Take charge of your eye health and schedule an appointment TODAY!
Your Healthy Eyesight Is Our Highest Priority!
