Should You Be Checked for Glaucoma?
Half of the estimated three million Americans with glaucoma
don’t realize that they have it. Glaucoma is the
second most common cause of blindness in the U.S.
and the number one cause of blindness among
African-Americans. Fortunately, those at risk for the eye disease can
be tested and treated before their eyes become permanently damaged.
“With glaucoma, the optic nerve is sensitive to the fluid pressure inside the eye. Treatment involves lowering the intraocular pressure. Without it, the optic nerve deteriorates, and that can lead to blindness,” said Rishi V. Kumar, M.D., glaucoma specialist at Sts. Mary and Elizabeth Hospital.
“The key is catching the disease early when it’s much easier to treat,” Dr. Kumar said. Glaucoma can happen to anyone, but screening eye exams are especially recommended for those at high risk for glaucoma. This includes:
- People with immediate family members who have had the disease;
- patients with diabetes;
- African-Americans age 50 and older; and
- Hispanics age 65 and older.
