Glaucoma is a disease that damages the optic nerve causing vision loss over time. Sometimes referred to as the “silent thief of vision”, glaucoma is a gradually progressive condition which can be managed with the use of drop medications or surgical intervention .

Early detection and intervention is key to preserving vision. The American Academy of Ophthalmology outlines patient at risk of glaucoma as those who are:

• over the age of 40

• have family members with glaucoma

• are of African, Hispanic, or Asian heritage

• have high eye pressure

• are farsighted or nearsighted

• have had an eye injury

• use long-term steroid medications

• have corneas that are thin in the center

• have thinning of the optic nerve

• have diabetes, migraines, high blood pressure, poor blood circulation or other health problems affecting the whole body

Regular dilated eye exams can proactively identify signs of glaucoma and help prevent vision loss with early identification and intervention.

Note: Glaucoma eye exams require dilation for full evaluation of the retina, and further testing and imaging may be required if signs of pathology are found