How to Guard Against Glaucoma

There are several eye conditions that have serious consequences to your vision. Glaucoma is generally ranked second. People that suffer from Glaucoma have substantial pressure inside one or both eyes. This ultimately damages the optic nerve. It is the optic nerve that is the communicating nerve between brain and each eye. Simply put, it sends signals that are interpreted by the brain and provides our vision.

Unfortunately, pressure on the optic nerve strains that communication and may result in destroyed peripheral vision. As the disease takes hold, Glaucoma can and will damage the primary and central vision as well.

This is a stealthy disease '" often the sufferer will not be aware of symptoms until all the damage has occurred.

Determine your risk factors for Glaucoma '" Are you in one of these high-risk groups:

The African-American community aged 40 and older
Adult seniors aged 60 and older, and
Individuals of families with a known history of eye disease
People suffering from diabetes
People suffering from eye problems and diseases
People with a usage history of steroids

Know the most common Glaucoma form - Primarily, Glaucoma presents as "Open-Angle Glaucoma." Sadly, this nasty eye condition sneaks up on its sufferers. There are no specific symptoms, yet it will permanently impair vision or, worse, cause blindness.

Use the best method of self-protection - Be sure to get regular eye examinations. Have that famous "puff test" and other tests recommended by your specialist to discover potential problems. Early detection is key in finding a Glaucoma condition.

Educate yourself on the disease, symptoms and screening methods - Besides the famous "puff," the doctor will dilate the pupils of each eye and look deep inside. Careful study is made of the interior structure and optic nerve. Also, the doctor will test peripheral vision. Examination of the optic nerve and any potential damage is noted.

Plan on more frequent exams if you are at high risk - For people aged 40 and older, the medical profession recommends eye exams every five years. If the patient is in one of the high-risk groups, examinations should occur more frequently, possibly on an annual basis. Personally, The Old Gray Mare believes the recommended eye examination schedule of 5 years for individuals older than 40 is not proactive enough . Your eyes and vision are involved. Exercise on the side of caution and get screened more frequently Better to be safe and not have hindsight remorse!

Be on guard against Glaucoma and take an active stand to screen against it.

This article is written by The Old Gray Mare of www.DressYourHorse.com. www.TShirtsbyLily, www.FantasyKritters.com and www.Amway.com/healthandhomebyheidi.