Glaucoma Symptoms & Risks
Are You At Risk?
Glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness in the world, and it affects about 2% of the over 40 population in the US. Glaucoma can go virtually undetected for a long time, as there are no symptoms at the outset. This is especially true for open-angle glaucoma, which is the most common form. Regular eye exams are therefore critical for individuals over the age of 40, as the ophthalmologist will be able to make an early diagnosis, and then get started with treatment.
Although anyone can get glaucoma at any age, older people face a higher risk. Other risk factors include:
- Age, the older you get the greater the risk
- People with high blood pressure
- Diabetics
- People with a family history of glaucoma
- Those who have suffered an eye injury
- African Americans, who are five times more likely to develop glaucoma
Early Diagnosis Can Save Your Sight
Early diagnosis is the only way to save the sight of people with glaucoma. The disease can be detected during a routine eye examination with your ophthalmologist. At the Center for Ophthalmology, we use advanced diagnostic imaging technology such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) to efficiently diagnose glaucoma. OCT can detect very early signs glaucoma, and this allows treatment to begin quickly. OCT is used not only to screen people that are at greater risk for glaucoma, but also to monitor patients during treatment.