Since this month marks National Glaucoma Awareness Month, in this article we would like to review the importance of early detection of glaucoma. Glaucoma is a group of progressive ocular disorders that cause damage to the optic nerve, which can cause blindness. When uncontrolled, the disease often initially shows up as vision loss in the periphery of the field of vision and ultimately ends up causing a complete loss of vision. Glaucoma is thought to be the leading cause of preventable blindness and according to estimates, over sixty million people worldwide suffer from the vision threatening condition.
One of the primary causes of glaucoma is known to be increased pressure around the optic nerve. As pressure around the eye is elevated, this damages the optic nerve which is responsible for delivering signals to the vision centers in the brain. In instances where this pathway doesn't function normally, eyesight is affected. Unfortunately, damage to the optic nerve can't be fixed.
Glaucoma is particularly threatening because distinct from other causes of vision impairment, it is asymptomatic until vision is already lost.
It is because of the disease's subtle nature glaucoma has obtained the nickname the "sneak thief of sight." The problem is: is it possible to protect yourself against an illness which is asymptomatic?
Early diagnosis of glaucoma is important to effective treatment. While glaucoma risk is universal, certain groups are at higher risk than others. Major risk factors for glaucoma can include those over 45 years of age, anyone with a family history of glaucoma, diabetes, or other eye conditions such as myopia, hyperopia, eye injuries or high intraocular pressure.
The best way to detect glaucoma is to speak to an optometrist. There are a number of diagnostic eye evaluations relied on by doctors to measure damage to the ocular nerves caused by glaucoma. Particularly if you are 45 or older or know that you are at risk, make sure to plan for a routine eye exam on an annual basis.
The fact is most kinds of glaucoma are not preventable. That being said, the damage to the optic nerve and deterioration of vision can be prevented by timely diagnosis and treatment. Don't delay! Contact "Contact Lens and Vision Consultants, P.A." today, for an annual glaucoma screening.
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