Since January marks National Glaucoma Awareness Month, this post is intended to spread the word about the importance of being aware of the indications of glaucoma. Glaucoma is the term for a group of progressive eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, which can cause loss of central vision and eventual blindness. When uncontrolled, glaucoma often first shows up as peripheral vision loss and ultimately ends up causing total blindness. Glaucoma is considered to be the leading cause of avoidable vision loss and, according to estimates, over 60 million individuals around the world suffer from the vision threatening condition.

One of the primary causes of glaucoma is thought to be elevated pressure in the eye. The elevation in pressure damages the optic nerve which transports signals to the brain. When this pathway doesn't function as needed, eyesight is impaired. Unfortunately, damage to the optic nerve can't be corrected.

Glaucoma is particularly dangerous because distinct from other forms of vision impairment, there are no indicators that serve as a warning until vision is already lost.
It is because of the disease's subtle nature glaucoma is known as the "sneak thief of sight." This may leave you asking: how can one prevent a disease which lacks any obvious symptoms?

Prompt diagnosis of glaucoma is necessary for successful treatment. Although glaucoma risk is universal, specific populations are at higher risk than others. Risk factors for glaucoma may include anyone over 45, individuals with a family history of glaucoma, individuals with diabetes, or other eye conditions such as myopia, hyperopia, eye injuries or elevated intraocular pressure.

An effective way to detect glaucoma is to speak to your optometrist. There are a series of diagnostic eye examinations used to assess damage to the ocular nerves caused by glaucoma. Particularly if you are 45 or older or know that you are at risk, it's important to book a routine eye examination at least once a year.

The fact is most kinds of glaucoma cannot be prevented. Nevertheless the loss of sight caused by damage to the optic nerve may be slowed by a reliable diagnosis and quick treatment. Contact Nieber Vision Center now, for a yearly screening for glaucoma.