GLAUCOMA

Glaucoma is an eye disease which causes destruction of the optic nerve fibers. This damage is typically caused by increased pressure inside the eye and can lead to blindness if not treated by an eye doctor. If this condition is properly detected through an eye exam and treated in a timely manner, it is most often successfully treated with prescription eye drops to lower the intraocular pressure.

Detecting Early Onset of Glaucoma

Glaucoma is the 2nd leading cause of preventable blindness in the U.S. Most likely, this is due to the fact that in the early stages of glaucoma, the patient experiences no symptoms. It is called the silent stealer of sight because a person can lose up to 40% of vision without realizing it. 

Those at Higher Risk for Developing Glaucoma

Some people are at higher risk for developing glaucoma. Those with a family history of glaucoma, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and even sleep apnea are more likely to develop glaucoma. Make an eye exam part of your annual health care regimen in Norfolk, Virginia Beach and Chesapeake!