"Sneak thief of Sight." - Don't Let Glaucoma Steal Your Sight!

January 4, 2010 — National Glaucoma Awareness Month

What if I told you roughly 2 million Americans could be robbed of their eye sight without a warning? That babies, children, teenagers, and older adults are all at risk? Would you spread the word?

What is Glaucoma?
There are two main types of glaucoma: primary open angle glaucoma and angle closure glaucoma. Both marked with an increased pressure inside the eye and will gradually damage the optic nerve without any warnings or symptoms. Vision loss begins with peripheral or side vision, which is why it is gone unnoticed until significant vision is lost. While the most common forms primarily affect the middle-aged and elderly, glaucoma can affect people of all ages.

Risk Factors
Over 4 million American have glaucoma, with an estimated 2 million un-diagnosed. Those at higher risk include people of African, Asian and Hispanic decent, people over 60, people with diabetes, and those with a family history of glaucoma. The good news is with regular comprehensive eye exams, it can be detected at an early state and treatment can begin immediately. Elaine Welch, President and CEO of the Pennsylvania Association for the blind says, “Glaucoma is the leading cause of preventable blindness, but unfortunately there is no cure for glaucoma. Early treatment and detection is the only way to prevent server vision loss.”

Childhood Glaucoma
Unlike the most common types of glaucoma, childhood glaucoma, also referred to as congenital glaucoma, pediatric or infantile glaucoma, does have noticeable symptoms and is usually diagnosed within the first year of life. Unusually large eyes, excessive tearing, cloudy eyes, and light sensitivity are some of the most common symptoms. Although lost vision cannot be restored, it is possible for children to live full lives, and maintain the remaining vision though medical treatments.

Help the Pennsylvania Association for the Blind spread the word, and raise awareness about glaucoma by talking to your friends and family about the importance of regular eye examinations to prevent blindness. For more information about Glaucoma contact the PAB at 717-766-2020.