What is glaucoma?

The most common form of glaucoma affects the pressure on the inside of the eye. When this pressure increases, vision loss can occur. The most at-risk group of people are those over 60 years of age, so it is extra important that these individuals have an eye exam once per year. This makes January, glaucoma awareness month! So let’s spread awareness for this sneaky thief of vision.
The main issue with glaucoma is that there are little to no symptoms, so vision loss can occur without your knowledge of it occurring. Over 3 million people have glaucoma, and it often occurs undetected and once vision is lost, it cannot be gained back. For this reason, glaucoma is the leading cause of preventable blindness.

The good news!

Glaucoma is preventable! If you have a comprehensive eye exam once per year, than glaucoma is easily detected with specific glaucoma testing. During these exams, the optometrist will use eye drops to dilate the pupil so they can see the shape and color of your optic nerve to determine that the pressure is within the right range. A test like this is routine, easy and could mean the difference between healthy eyes and permanent vision loss. As a comprehensive eye care facility, Horizon Eye Care urges your participation in yearly eye exams for your eye and vision health, and to raise awareness this month about glaucoma!

If you would like to learn more about glaucoma or donate to the Glaucoma Research Foundation to help find a cure see:
http://www.glaucoma.org/news/glaucoma-awareness-month.php