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Glaucoma Facts & Myths
Posted by: Mitchell Refractive Surgery & Eye Center
A staggering 80 million people worldwide live with glaucoma. This knowledge is not meant to scare you, but to empower you with a wealth of information. Understanding the correct information can significantly impact your daily life and eye health. Together, let’s debunk six common myths that the Glaucoma Research Foundation has researched.
Myth #1: People With Good Vision Don’t Get Glaucoma
Most types of glaucoma will not have any symptoms, and people with good vision may not notice any symptoms until the late stages, which is why glaucoma is called the “silent thief of sight.” The later the disease is diagnosed and treated, the more likely it is to result in vision loss.
Myth #2: I Can’t Get Glaucoma Because No One In My Family Has The Disease
While glaucoma can be hereditary, many glaucoma patients without a family history of the condition are diagnosed with glaucoma. There’s also the possibility that family members did have the disease but were never examined adequately for glaucoma. That’s why all patients diagnosed with glaucoma should ensure their family members are screened for it, especially if they are over the age of 40.
Myth #3: Testing For Glaucoma Is Painful
Rest assured, multiple tests are available for glaucoma and are painless. Your eye doctor examines many factors, and the two most common tests, tonometry and ophthalmoscopy, are not painful at all. You can undergo these tests without any discomfort or fear.
Tonometry measures the pressure within a person’s eye.
Ophthalmoscopy is a diagnostic procedure to examine a person’s optic nerve for glaucoma damage.
Myth #4: There Is No Treatment For Glaucoma
While glaucoma is not curable, it is highly treatable. Many effective treatments are available, including eye drop medications that reduce eye pressure, injectable medications that slow down the progression of the disease, oral medicines that can be used in combination with other treatments, and laser and surgical procedures that can improve the drainage of fluid from the eye. With the right treatment, glaucoma can be managed effectively, preventing it from causing damage to the optic nerve and potential blindness. Knowing that effective treatments are available is a reason for hope and optimism.
Myth #5: Only Older Adults Suffer From Glaucoma
People over 60 are at a greater risk of developing glaucoma than people in their 40s. Certain types of glaucoma can affect people aged 20 to 50 and even young children and infants (due to abnormal ocular development)
Myth #6: The Symptoms Of Glaucoma Are Noticeable
Glaucoma is known to creep up and slowly damage a person’s eyesight silently. The most common form of glaucoma, open-angle glaucoma, symptoms are not quite noticeable at first. This could mean people with apparently perfect vision may have glaucoma yet be unaware of it. Early detection is why it’s critical not to delay regular eye exams. By being aware of this, you can take responsibility for your eye health and ensure early detection of any potential issues.
According to the World Health Organization, glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness worldwide. Knowing the facts about glaucoma is essential to protecting and preserving your eye health. Remember, early detection through regular eye exams is key. Schedule your appointment TODAY! You will be doing your eye health a lot of good.
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