Today marks the beginning of the World Glaucoma week!
It is a week set aside to create awareness of an eye disease which is the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide.
Glaucoma is a name which is used to refer to a wide spectrum of diseases in which there is damage to the optic nerve., which is the nerve responsible for vision that connects the eye to the brain.
Glaucoma has been classified into various types based on the structure of the eye (open angle or closed eye), age of onset, cause (primary or secondary) and this is a pointer to the fact that this disease is actually a spectrum of diseases.
The presentation or symptoms of glaucoma varies depending on the sub-type of glaucoma . The open angle variety of glaucoma is characteristically symptom-less in its early stages and by the time one notices a drop in vision, the disease is advanced.
It is therefore advocated that EVERYONE should have a comprehensive eye examination annually to detect eye problems especially glaucoma.
This is most crucial if any of the following criteria is applicable:
1. There is a history of Glaucoma or unexplained blindness in a family member (living or dead)
2. One is of African descent
3. One is above 40 years of age
4. One has a history of trauma to the eye
Please see an Ophthalmologist ANNUALLY and don't go for years without having an eye check. Glaucoma is the ONE disease in which ignorance is NOT bliss. The earlier you know, the better. There are effective drugs, laser treatment and surgeries available for the treatment of glaucoma.
Together, we can Beat Invisible Glaucoma!!!
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