Glaucoma – The Silent Thief of Sight
- Posted on: Sep 15 2016
There are many conditions and diseases that can affect your eyes and your vision as you age, glaucoma is one of them. Being knowledgable and caring about your eyes should be one of your top health priorities. Continue reading to learn more about this progressive disease:
Glaucoma Facts:
•The two most common types of glaucoma are chronic open angle glaucoma and closed angle glaucoma.
•Glaucoma is a disease of the optic nerve in which nerve damage leads to progressive, irreversible vision loss.
•Glaucoma is the second leading cause of preventable blindness in the country, even though there are effective treatments available.
•Glaucoma usually affects both eyes, although one may have more severe signs and symptoms than the other.
•Most people have no early warning signs and no symptoms.
•Glaucoma can be diagnosed at a comprehensive annual eye exam and treated to halt its progression.
Six factors that raise your risk of developing glaucoma:
1.Your age. People over the age of 60 are at higher risk.
2.Your gender. Females are three times more likely to develop glaucoma as males.
3.Myopia. People with myopia, also called nearsightedness, have a higher risk of glaucoma.
4.Some illnesses. People with diabetes or hypothyroidism have a higher chance of developing glaucoma.
5.Eye injuries or conditions. Some eye injuries, especially severe ones, are linked to a higher glaucoma risk. Retinal detachment, eye inflammation and eye tumors can also cause glaucoma.
6.Corticosteroids. Patients on long-term corticosteroids have an elevated risk of developing several different conditions, including glaucoma. The risk is even greater with eyedrops containing corticosteroids.
The goal of glaucoma treatment is improving the flow of fluid inside the eye, reducing its production, and sometimes both. Damage caused by glaucoma is irreversible. Glaucoma can’t be cured but it can be managed. Regular eye exams and proper treatment can slow the progression of glaucoma and prevent further loss of sight.
Dr. Silverstein specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma. If you have concerns about your vision, call to schedule a comprehensive, diagnostic eye exam, today.
Posted in: Glaucoma
