Renowned Eye Surgeon Dr. Stewart Shofner Debunks Top Five Myths About Glaucoma
PR Web |
Dr.
1) Myth: People with perfect vision won't develop glaucoma. Fact: Individuals with perfect vision could still have or develop glaucoma since the disease usually affects peripheral vision first and central vision last. Some types of glaucoma show no symptoms and can only be diagnosed during a comprehensive eye exam.
2) Myth: Marijuana heals glaucoma. Fact: The
3) Myth: Glaucoma is only genetically acquired. Fact: Family history of some forms of glaucoma can increase one's risk of developing glaucoma and researchers are actively investigating the genes responsible. However, in many cases glaucoma is not inherited.
4) Myth: Medicine cures glaucoma. Fact: Early detection and treatment minimizes the risk of permanent vision loss. However, there isn't a quick fix or cure. Glaucoma is a chronic condition that needs ongoing treatment. If damage has already occurred it is irreversible.
5) Myth: High blood pressure causes glaucoma. Fact: Controlling blood pressure does not mean intraocular pressure (IOP) is controlled. While high blood pressure can be associated with elevated IOP, low blood pressure is strongly associated with some types of glaucoma, for example, normal-tension glaucoma.
About Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a group of eye disorders leading to progressive damage to the optic nerve, and is characterized by loss of nerve tissue resulting in loss of vision. The most common form of glaucoma, primary open-angle glaucoma, is associated with an increase in the fluid pressure inside the eye.
This increase in pressure (also known as IOP) may cause progressive damage to the optic nerve and loss of nerve fibers. Two-thirds of those with closed-angle glaucoma develop it slowly without any symptoms prior to an attack. Advanced glaucoma may even cause blindness.
Who's at Risk?
According to the
Other risk factors include thinner corneas, chronic eye inflammation, and using medications that increase the pressure in the eyes. "The best way to protect your sight from glaucoma is to schedule an eye exam," says
About Shofner Vision Center
Dr.
Conveniently located in the heart of downtown
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