Currently, there are 60 million people worldwide and 2.2 million people in America suffering from some form of glaucoma. Everyone from young children (even babies) to senior citizens is at risk. This is why it is so important to have your eyes examined regularly. So, when was your last eye exam?
Early detection of glaucoma and vigilant treatment are the best ways to prevent major vision loss. Glaucoma must be treated over the course of one’s life, and high IOP (intraocular eye pressure) must be managed daily through the use of various treatment options: medication, lasers, or surgery. We can usually control IOP nicely with drops alone.
Tips for Managing Your Glaucoma
Treatment successfully preserves vision 95% of the time or more, especially when the condition is caught early and managed properly.
Prescription Eye Drops
Prescription eye drops are designed to help maintain IOP at a healthy level. However, for them to be effective, they must be used properly. This means following your eye doctor’s orders, using your drops daily (don’t forget!), and, most importantly, applying your eye drops correctly. Click Here for tips on using your prescription eye drops.
Glaucoma treatment successfully preserves vision 95% of the time or more, especially when the condition is caught early and managed properly.
Remember to Schedule Your Regular Eye Exams
The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) recommends that everyone have a baseline eye screening at the age of 40. Based on the results of the initial screening, your eye doctor will recommend the necessary intervals for follow-up exams. Seniors – over the age of 65 – should have complete eye exams every one to two years.
If you are diagnosed with glaucoma or are a glaucoma suspect, it is important to receive regular examinations and visual field tests to monitor for progression and prevention.
Stay Organized
With glaucoma, it is important to stay organized. You will need to take your medication daily and receive regular examinations from your ophthalmologist. We recommend keeping a calendar of your appointments and using an alarm or smart phone alert when it is time to take your medication each day.
The Ann Arundel Eye Center
The Anne Arundel Eye Center, located in Annapolis, Maryland, is a regional leader in the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma. Led by board certified ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles and staffed by caring and knowledgeable professionals, AAEC’s state-of-the-art treatment center is dedicated to making the best eye care accessible to everyone.
Schedule an Appointment
If you have any questions about Managing Glaucoma, please contact Dr. Boles, Dr. Kathryn Gurganus Turner, and the eye care specialists here at AAEC by calling 410-224-2010. You can also follow AAEC on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube for more eye care advice and information.
And don’t forget to take a look at our previous blog posts while you’re at it!