Did you know the January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month? Glaucoma, a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, is one of the leading causes of vision loss and blindness. While it can occur at any age, it is most common in older adults over the age of 60.
National Glaucoma Awareness Month is a good reminder to get regular eye exams that include measurements of your eye pressure. This way, a diagnosis can be made in its early stages and treated properly. If recognized early, vision loss due to glaucoma can be slowed or prevented.
According to the Mayo Clinic, signs and symptoms of glaucoma vary, but include:
Open-angle glaucoma
- Patchy blind spots in your side (peripheral) or central vision, frequently in both eyes
- Tunnel vision in the advanced stages
Acute angle-closure glaucoma
- Severe headache
- Eye pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Blurred vision
- Halos around lights
- Eye redness
If left untreated, glaucoma will eventually cause blindness. Even with treatment, about 15 percent of people with glaucoma become blind in at least one eye within 20 years. Contact Dr. Barr and his team at Island Eyecare today to schedule a comprehensive eye exam! We look forward to seeing you soon.