The Low Down On Eye Health: Glaucoma

Myopia, presbyopia, age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, blindness.  This list reveals some of the most common eye health problems or vision impairments we have today.  But do most of us understand what these conditions are or what symptoms they have?  Most likely not. I know I didn’t. 

This list of eye conditions are ones Indiana vision center’s see and treat often according to Indiana eye doctors like Dr. Tavel and his board certified associates.  They are conditions we should know about so as I learn more and more about them I’ll share what I find on the Vision Blog.  Questions can always be sent to: [email protected]

First up, glaucoma.  Glaucoma is a word I had heard before but I was never completely sure what it was or what it meant.  Come to find out it is the second leading cause of blindness according to Allaboutvision.com.  Yikes. 

Glaucoma is defined by increased fluid and pressure in the eyes which can damage the optic nerve.  The optic nerve transmits messages from our retina in our eyes to our brain.

Glaucoma is called the “silent thief of sight” by Allaboutvision.com as often times no noticeable symptoms or pain occur until vision loss.  When this vision loss does occur often times the damage to the optic nerve is irreversible.  

What can be done?  Know if you are at risk and get a dilated eye examination by your eye care doctor every 1-2 years. 

According to the National Eye Institute those at higher risk for developing glaucoma are:

-African-Americans over age 40
-People over age 60 especially Mexican Americans
-People with family history of glaucoma

Early detection is the best way to protect vision from glaucoma.  Glaucoma is something beatable (and treatable) and at least now we know what the word means!