Glaucoma is a major cause of vision loss worldwide. It affects more than 3 million people in the United States – nearly half of whom are unaware they have the disease. During Glaucoma Awareness Month in January, the Kentucky Academy of Eye Physicians and Surgeons joins the American Academy of Ophthalmology in reminding the public that early detection and treatment can help protect your sight.
Glaucoma damages the optic nerve, which transmits visual information from the retina to the brain.
Typically, the disease initially has no signs or symptoms. If left untreated, glaucoma can cause irreversible blindness.
The Academy recommends that everyone have a comprehensive eye exam at age 40. This exam provides ophthalmologists – physicians who specialize in medical and surgical eye care – an opportunity to carefully examine the eye including the optic nerve for signs of damage and other possible problems that may affect vision. Individuals at greater risk for developing glaucoma include people:
· over age 40;
· of African, Asian or Hispanic heritage;
· who have high eye pressure detected during an eye exam;
· who are farsighted or nearsighted;
· who have experienced eye trauma or eye injury;
· whose corneas are thin in the center;
· or who have health problems such as diabetes, migraines, high blood pressure or poor blood circulation.
Appropriate treatment for glaucoma depends on the specific type and severity of the disease. Medicated eye drops or laser treatments are the most common initial approach. These techniques work by lowering eye pressure to reduce the amount of fluid in the eye, and by increasing fluid outflow from the eye.
“Glaucoma is typically symptomless to patients; however, permanent, irreversible vision loss can already be taking place,” said Andrew G. Iwach, M.D., a clinical spokersperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology. “Early detetion is paramount to avoiding blindness and managing the diease.”
“Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness,” said Joern B. Soltau, MD, Acting Chair of the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at the University of Louisville School of Medicine. “It runs in families. If you have glaucoma make sure to remind your loved ones to have a comprehensive eye exam to screen for the disease.”
For more information on glaucoma or other eye conditions and diseases, visit the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s EyeSmart® website.
Kentucky Academy of Eye Physicians and Surgeons
