Eye Conditions and Concerns, what is 20/20 Vision and the Importance of Regular Eye Exams

It's National Glaucoma Awareness Month

To spread the word about the ''sneak thief of sight,'' January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month. Glaucoma is the leading source of avoidable permanent vision loss, accounting for 9%-12% of all cases of total vision loss in the United States and effecting nearly 70 million people around the world. Due to the fact that the disease has no early symptoms, experts believe that nearly 50% of patients with the disease are not aware of their condition.

Glaucoma is actually a group of eye diseases that have the common affect of causing damage to the eye's optic nerve, which is responsible for carrying images between the eye and the brain. Although glaucoma can affect people of all ages, those at higher risk include African Americans over age 40, anyone over age 60, in particular Mexican Americans, and those with a family history of the disease.

Since vision loss due to optic nerve damage is irreversible, early diagnosis of glaucoma is vital. Symptoms of the disease, however, are often not present before optical nerve damage has taken place, and usually begin with an irreversible loss of peripheral (side) vision.

Treatment for glaucoma is determined based on the type of glaucoma and the amount of vision loss, and includes medication (usually prescription eye drops) or surgery. Although scientists are working hard to find a cure, one does not currently exist and therefore proper diagnosis and treatment are the only ways to preserve vision. Because glaucoma develops gradually and requires constant attention, it is preferable to find an eye doctor you trust.

According to a recent survey of the National Eye Institute of the NIH, while glaucoma was known to ninety percent of the people they surveyed, only eight percent were aware that it presents no early warning symptoms. Only an experienced optometrist can identify the initial signs of glaucoma, using a thorough eye exam. An annual glaucoma screening is the best way to protect your vision from this potentially devastating disease. Schedule your annual comprehensive eye exam today.