Information for people at risk

What is glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of diseases that can harm the optic nerve and cause vision loss or
blindness. The optic nerve is a bundle of nerves that carry messages from the eye to the brain.
The most common form of glaucoma is primary open-angle, which this informational write up is
about.

What causes glaucoma?
At the front of the eye, there is a small space where clear fluid flows in and out. This clear fluid
feeds nearby eye tissue. When the clear fluid flows too slowly, it creates pressure on the optic
nerve. This pressure can harm the optic nerve and cause glaucoma and vision loss.

Who is most likely to get glaucoma?
Anyone can get glaucoma, but some people have a higher chance of getting it. People who
have a higher chance are African over the age of 40. If glaucoma runs in your family, you also
have a higher chance of getting it.

What are the symptoms of glaucoma?
In its early stages, many times there are no symptoms or pain. As glaucoma gets worse, you
may slowly lose your side vision. If it remains untreated, you may miss objects to the side of
your eye, bump in to objects on your way. It is like looking through a tunnel. Over time, straight
ahead vision may decrease until no vision remains.

How do you know if you have glaucoma?
Only An eye care professional can tell if you have glaucoma by giving you a comprehensive
dilated eye exam. Book an appointment with us today.

How can glaucoma be treated?
Glaucoma cannot be cured(because existing damage to the optic nerve cannot be reversed) but
it can be controlled to keep it from getting worse. Catching it early is key to protecting your
vision.Eye drops and medicine can help your eyes make less fluid or can help drain the fluid
from the eye properly. Laser surgery can also make it easier for fluid to leave the eye. Surgery
can make a new space where the fluid can drain.These treatments aim to lower intraocular
pressure, thereby reducing the risk of impaired vision or blindness.

What can you do to protect your vision?
Get a comprehensive dilated eye exam at least once every two years. This is more important if
you are African over age 40; or have a family history of glaucoma; or have diabetes. Finding and
treating glaucoma early can help keep the disease from getting worse and reduce your risk of
vision loss.

Get your eyes examined. Don’t lose sight of
glaucoma