Did you know that glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness worldwide? According to the World Health Organization, this eye disease affects millions of people, and the numbers are expected to increase in the coming years. It is often referred to as the “silent thief of sight” because in the most common form, there are virtually no symptoms until vision loss has already begun.
The vision loss caused by glaucoma begins with peripheral or side vision. This means that if you have glaucoma, you may not notice anything until significant vision is lost. The sad truth is that once vision is lost to glaucoma, it cannot be restored. That is why it is crucial to get regular comprehensive eye examinations to protect your sight from this disease.
Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness. If someone in your family has been diagnosed with glaucoma, your risk of developing the disease is significantly higher. That’s why it’s essential to inform your optometrist about any family history of eye diseases during your eye exam.
Early detection and treatment are critical in managing glaucoma. The goal of treatment is to prevent or slow down the damage to your optic nerve. Treatment options can include eye drops, oral medications, laser therapy, or surgery, depending on the severity of the disease.
Glaucoma is a severe eye disease that can cause irreversible vision loss. The best way to protect your sight is to get a comprehensive eye exam, especially if you have a family history of eye diseases or are at higher risk due to your ethnicity. Remember, early detection and treatment can slow or prevent vision loss caused by glaucoma.
Don’t let glaucoma steal your sight. Take action today!
