BEAT INVISIBLE GLAUCOMA
GLAUCOMA is a group of eye diseases that progressively and gradually damages the optic nerve of the eye, resulting in irreversible blindness or vision loss. This condition is generally caused by (or associated with) consistently increased eye pressure in the affected eye. Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness worldwide, with about 6 million Nigerians living with glaucoma currently.
Glaucoma may present in various forms – the more common type of glaucoma known as primary open-angle glaucoma, is associated with a poor draining of the fluid in the eye, causing pressure to build up and gradual damage of the optic nerve. This type of glaucoma is painless and causes no apparent vision at first, thus many who are afflicted with it are unaware till irreversible damage on the optic nerve is already done. Another type of glaucoma occurs when the pressure in the eye suddenly and quickly builds up due to a gradual block in the fluid outflow channels in the eye. This presents as an eye emergency with so much pain and discomfort. Unfortunately, vision loss due to glaucoma cannot be regained. The good news is this: blindness caused by glaucoma CAN BE PREVENTED; this is possible through early detection during eye/glaucoma screenings or routine eye examinations.
A number of risk factors have been associated with glaucoma; these include African descent, above 40 years of age, family history of glaucoma, a traumatic eye/head injury, diabetes, hypertension and very high refractive prescription. It is advisable that people, who are exposed to any/all of the mentioned risk factors, seek professional care and participate in the glaucoma assessments. Glaucoma tests are generally painless and take little time.
Glaucoma an only be managed through the use of medications and surgery aimed at regulating the eye pressure. Early detection is vital. If you are already living with glaucoma, you can co-operate with your doctor to ensure that your remaining vision is sustained by adherence to your prescribed drug regimen, routine and frequent follow-up assessments as well as adopting healthy lifestyles. Learn more at: http://silverspringeyecare.org/lets-beat-invisible-glaucoma/
What do I do?
It will be worthwhile to seize the opportunity during the upcoming World Glaucoma Week, March 10 – March 17, 2019, to know your status in relation to glaucoma, especially when you are exposed to any of the afore-mentioned risk factors. Ensure to be screened!
SILVERSPRING EYE CLINIC 