You may have heard of glaucoma which is a common eye disorder and one of the leading causes of blindness in the United States. But what else do you really know about it and are you at risk?

Glaucoma is an eye disease in which the optic nerve suffers damage and can permanently impair vision in the eye(s). There are different types of glaucoma and the disease can present itself without warning or symptoms. The most common form is the result of elevated pressure of the fluid in the eye and sometimes other factors that cause the fibers running through the optic nerve to slowly deteriorate. Without treatment, glaucoma can lead to permanent vision loss.

Who is at risk?

Everyone is at risk. However, certain factors can increase that risk, including: if you are over 60 years of age, if you are African American, if you have high myopia (nearsightedness), diabetes, hypertension, or if you are a steroid user.

Over 3 million Americans have glaucoma, yet half are unaware that they even have the disease. This is why regular eye exams are so important. While there is no cure for glaucoma, these eye exams, early detection, and treatment (medication and possibly surgery) can help slow or even prevent further vision loss brought on by this disease.

So, when was the last time you had a thorough eye exam?

If you would like to schedule an appointment with Anne Arundel Eye Center to meet with cataracts and glaucoma specialist Dr. Samuel Boles, or if you simply have a questions about what you have just read, contact Anne Arundel Eye Center by calling 410-224-2010 or click here today!

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