January is Glaucoma Awareness Month. Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that cause progressive damage to the optic nerve, resulting in loss of vision.

In the U.S., more than 3 million people have been diagnosed with glaucoma. It is the second leading cause of blindness globally (cataracts are first). Since glaucoma often begins with no discernible symptoms, regular eye exams are important, especially for those who fall in the high risk category.

Who is at risk for glaucoma?

It most often occurs in people over age 60; among Asian, African and Mexican Americans; and those with a family history of glaucoma. Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure, also put people at an increased risk. I advise my patients with these medical conditions to get a comprehensive eye exam every 12 months. Once diagnosed, glaucoma is easily treated and managed, typically through prescription eye drops.

At Crozet Eye Care, we test for glaucoma through a variety of painless procedures, including:

• Tonometry – a simple and painless measurement of the pressure in the eye (No puff of air!)
• Ophthalmoscopy – an examination of the back of the eye to observe the health and appearance of the optic nerve
• Visual field test – a check for the development of abnormal blind spots

You can find additional information about glaucoma on our web site here. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to call our office.