There are currently more than 2.7 million people in the U.S., and over 60 million worldwide, with glaucoma, the leading cause of preventable blindness. Glaucoma, also known as the “silent sight stealer”, is a potentially blinding disease, often with no symptoms in early stages. If undetected, and the patient experiences vision loss, the damage is permanent.
Who is at Risk?
If you are over the age of 65, or are African-American, Hispanic, have a family history of glaucoma, are severely nearsighted or have diabetes, you are at particularly high risk.
What is Glaucoma?
The second leading cause of blindness worldwide, glaucoma is an eye disease that can gradually steal sight without much warning. In fact, the most common form of glaucoma virtually has no symptoms until vision loss has begun. Glaucoma causes an increase in eye pressure, which will eventually damage the optic nerve, causing vision damage and loss.
Regular Eye Examinations are Important
The good news is that glaucoma can be easily detected in the early stages with an eye examination. Routine eye exams are especially critical for patients who are at higher risk for glaucoma.
Dr. Saya Nagori is our Fellowship Trained Glaucoma specialist at Stahl Eyecare Experts and also performs cataract surgery, glaucoma surgery and laser vision correction. Treatment options for glaucoma have changed dramatically over the past several years, offering you a wide variety of possible options.
Early detection is vital in preventing vision loss from glaucoma – schedule your appointment for an annual eye examination today!
