What is glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a condition in which pressure created by the fluid in one or both eyes builds up to an abnormally high level. When this pressure, called intraocular pressure, remains elevated over a period of time, damage can occur. Although glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness, almost all blindness due to glaucoma can be prevented by early detection and treatment. Since some forms of glaucoma have no symptoms, it’s important to have routine eye examinations even if you have no visual complaints. People at high risk for glaucoma need a dialated eye exam at least every two years. High risk individuals are african americans over age 40, everyone over age 60 and those with a family history of glaucoma. Contact your eyecare professional for more information about glaucoma.