Glaucoma detection important
By John Wood, OD

January is Glaucoma Awareness Month and the American Optometric Association urges everyone to get a comprehensive eye exam.

Glaucoma is a class of diseases of the optic nerve where cells die resulting in a gradual and permanent loss of vision. The most common form is painless and has no symptoms. A person could have glaucoma while reading this and not be aware of it.

It is estimated that glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness in the world with more than 4 million Americans affected by the disease, but only half know they have it. Early discovery, diagnosis and treatment are extremely important to prevent blindness.

With a rapidly aging Baby Boom generation, these numbers are expected to double in the next decade. The average age of diagnosis is the early 50s.

Those most at risk are AfricanAmericans older than 40, Hispanics (especially with diabetic family history), people with a family history of glaucoma, anybody older than 60, people with diabetes and other adverse health conditions, those who have experienced a serious eye injury and those who are severely nearsighted, especially Asians.

Glaucoma is a treatable disease and vision loss can be minimized. Those who are potentially at risk must take the first step and get an eye exam. The first line of treatment typically consists of eye drops to lower the pressure inside the eye.

Many patients have "normal" or "low tension" glaucoma, so complete testing, which includes peripheral vision, and not just monitoring the pressure is important.

Sadly, most people don't notice symptoms until they have already lost significant vision, and this loss is irreversible. Glaucoma is a chronic condition and must be monitored for life.

If more than two years have passed since the last eye exam, it is appropriate to be evaluated.

Dr. John Wood practices at Moorpark Optometric Eyecare Inc., 525-F Los Angeles Ave., Moorpark. The office has full instrumentation to diagnose glaucoma. To schedule an appointment, call (805) 529-5497.