Glaucoma is a group of diseases that can lead to vision loss and blindness. It is a leading cause of vision loss and blindness in the United States. In its early stages, many times there are no symptoms or pain. As it gets worse, you may slowly lose your side vision. If it remains untreated, you may miss objects to the side and out of the corner of your eye. It’s like looking through a tunnel.
Anyone can get glaucoma, but those at higher risk include: ·Anyone over the age of 60, especially Hispanics/Latinos ·African Americans over age 40 ·People with a family history of glaucoma
The only way to find out if you have glaucoma is to get a comprehensive dilated eye exam from an eye care professional. Glaucoma cannot be cured, but it can be treated to keep it from getting worse. Catching it early is key to protecting your vision. You can protect your vision by getting a comprehensive eye exam at least once every two years. Written by parishioner, Sandy Jones, RN