Glaucoma
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
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No Pain. No Symptoms.
No wonder it's called the silent thief of sight!
GLAUCOMA.
Glaucoma is a group of eye disorders that lead to damage of the optic nerve and result in vision loss and blindness. Because there are usually no symptoms or pain associated with the onset of Glaucoma, it's call the Silent Thief of Sight.
Glaucoma Is A Leading Cause of Blindness.
An estimated 120,000 Americans are blind as a result of glaucoma. That represents 9% to 12% of all causes of blindness in the U.S.
Glaucoma Can Strike Anyone.
While order adults are at higher risk for glaucoma, it can strike anyone at any age. Each year, 1 in 10,000 babies are born with glaucoma.
Vision Loss From Glaucoma Is Irreversible.
Vision Lost to Glaucoma cannot be restored. With early detection and treatment, vision loss may be halted. Because glaucoma is a chronic condition, it must be monitored for life.
Glaucoma Has No Noticeable Symptoms.
In open-angle glaucoma, the most common form, there are virtually no symptoms. There is usually no pain and even when glaucoma begins to affect peripheral vision, most people can unconsciously compensate for it by turning their head to the side.
Only An Eye Exam Can Detect Glaucoma.
Glaucoma can only be diagnosed through a comprehensive eye health examination. The most efficient diagnosis is with dilation or a retinal scan.
Of the estimated 3 million Americans that have glaucoma, only half know they have it.
Do you know if you have it???
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