Important Facts About Glaucoma

The following is information regarding primary open-angle glaucoma, the most common form of glaucoma:

• Glaucoma is a serious eye disease. If left untreated, it can lead to vision loss and blindness.
• Glaucoma is the second most common cause of legal blindness in the U.S. It is the leading cause of blindness for African-Americans.
• Glaucoma is a chronic (ongoing) condition that requires lifelong monitoring and treatment. It is important for people with glaucoma to work with their Eye doctors to find a treatment plan that is right for them.
• About 2 million Americans have glaucoma -- but only half of them are aware of it.
• In glaucoma, the fluid (different from tears) that normally flows through the front section of the eye cannot drain properly. This causes a buildup of pressure in the eye that can damage the optic nerve and lead to vision loss.
• Your Eye doctor can use a series of painless tests and exams to check you for glaucoma. Other tests may be done if your Eye doctor suspects you may have glaucoma.
• Vision loss is usually preventable if glaucoma is detected early. There is no "cure" for glaucoma, but early detection and ongoing treatment can control the disease and usually preserve vision.
• Treatment for glaucoma can include medication and/or surgery. The best treatment for each person is determined by a number of factors, including type and severity of glaucoma, and the person's medical history and lifestyle.
• Glaucoma usually has no symptoms until vision loss has occurred.
• Approximately 80,000 Americans are legally blind from glaucoma.
  Many more have visual impairment.
• Seniors, African-Americans and those with a family history of glaucoma
  are at higher risk for the disease and should have eye exams more often.
• Medications for glaucoma -- even eye drops -- can affect the whole body and may interact with other medications. It is very important for all your doctors to be aware of any medication you take.

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