Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a condition in which the fluid that normally flows through the anterior (front) of the eye fails to drain as needed, causing added pressure on the optic nerve. The optic nerve is sensitive to trauma from pressure. Left untreated, vision deteriorates and eventually ceases.

Glaucoma is symptomless until vision impairment occurs. Early detection is key to avoiding permanent vision impairment. If diagnosed, your ophthalmologist can usually take steps to control the further loss of vision. However, once damage to your vision has occurred, it cannot be reversed. See your ophthalmologist to determine your risk for glaucoma and have a regular eye exam when recommended.

Glaucoma Rates Are Higher in People Who:

• Are nearsighted
• Are over 65
• Have a family history of glaucoma
• Take steroid medicines
• Have had a past trauma to the eye
• Are African-American and over age 40
• Have diabetes
• Have high blood pressure

Even if none of these apply to you, have an eye exam at these recommended times:

• Once between the ages of 20 and 39
• Every two to four years between ages 40-64
• Every one to two years after age 65
• Whenever recommended by your ophthalmologist

Cataracts

Some Facts About Cataracts

A cataract is formed when the cornea of the eye, which focuses light and produces sharp images, becomes cloudy and/or hardens, causing a loss of visual clarity, and left untreated, blindness.

A cataract is painless and develops over time. Depth perception, night vision and color clarity are some of the first functions affected by a cataract.

Cataracts develop in aging people but can also be caused in younger people by certain medicines, genetics and in some cases, injury.

Cataracts can be treated by surgery; but in cases where surgery is not indicated, stronger lens prescription and medications might be prescribed.

In cases where surgery is indicated and completed, approximately 98 percent of patients have a successful outcome. Advances in technology are continuously improving the quality of cataract care and keeping surgery costs reasonable.

Cataracts are a fact of life for some and become a fact of life for many of us as we get older. However, you don't need to live with the burden of diminishing sight. If you have any symptoms that lead you to believe that you may be developing a cataract or cataracts run in your family, be sure to see your eye care professional as soon as possible. Early detection of any condition is key to keeping any disorder under control and ensuring a long life of clear vision!