Since January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month, in this article we would like to spread the word about the importance of being aware of the threat of this vision threatening disease. Glaucoma is the term for a group of progressive eye diseases that cause damage to the optic nerve, which may be a precursor to a loss of vision. When uncontrolled, the damage often initially shows up as peripheral vision loss until it eventually results in total blindness. Glaucoma is the leading cause of avoidable vision loss and more than 60 million individuals worldwide are afflicted with the vision threatening condition.

The primary source of glaucoma is considered to be increased pressure around the optic nerve. As pressure around the eye increases, this causes damage to the optic nerve which is responsible for delivering messages from the eye to the brain. When this system doesn't work as needed, eyesight is affected. Regrettably, optic nerve damage can't be corrected.

The most concerning thing about glaucoma is that distinct from other forms of vision loss, there are no indicators that serve as a warning until irreparable damage is done.
It is for this reason that glaucoma has acquired the nickname the "sneak thief of sight." The question is: how is it possible to diagnose an illness which is asymptomatic?

Early detection of glaucoma is the key to effective care. Although glaucoma risk is universal, certain populations have a higher risk than others. Serious risk factors for glaucoma may include anyone over 45, individuals having a family history of glaucoma, individuals with diabetes, or other eye conditions such as myopia, hyperopia, eye injuries or high intraocular pressure.

There are several different classes of glaucoma such as open-angle or closed angle glaucomas. Both eyes are usually affected, but the disease can progress more quickly in one eye than in the other.

The best way to detect glaucoma is to speak to an eye doctor. There are a number of diagnostic eye examinations relied on by doctors to measure damage to the ocular nerves caused by glaucoma. Particularly if you are over 45 or have one of the other risk factors named above, make sure to plan for a routine eye examination annually.

The fact is for the most part glaucoma cannot be prevented. That being said, the optic nerve damage and loss of vision can be stopped by timely diagnosis and quick treatment. Don't delay! Contact Complete Eye Care now, for a yearly glaucoma screening.