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 Ophthalmologists/Eye M.D.s 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 ophthalmologist can use a series of painless tests and exams to check you for glaucoma. Other tests may be done if your ophthalmologist 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. The incidence is higher in certain other countries. 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.

Gulf Eye Center,� PO Box 73258,� Dubai, UAE
Office Suite 615, Fairmont Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road
TOLL FREE: 800 LASIK (52745) & 800 EYES (3937)
Tel no: +971 4 329 1977
Fax no: +971 4 329 1979
eyedoc@emirates.net.ae
info@gulfeyecenter.com
www.gulfeyecenter.com�

Related Topics:
Symptoms Of Glaucoma
Surgery For Glaucoma
If Your Are Scheduled For Glaucoma Surgery

Dr Millicent M. Grim
Specialist Ophthalmologist / LASIK Specialist
MBChB (Pretoria), DTM H (WITS), MMed (Ophth) (Pretoria)
AAO, ASCRS, ISRS (US), GMC (UK)

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