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Early detection of eye problems is key to successfully preventing vision loss, and begins with an annual eye exam.
Glaucoma affects 250,000 Canadians. It is the second most common cause of vision loss in people over the age of 65. There are several different types of Glaucoma, all characterized by damage to the eye’s optic nerve which connects the retina to the brain.
Since Glaucoma often has no symptoms, there is no pain and vision loss isn’t immediately noticeable. If left untreated, Glaucoma causes a growing area of vision loss in your peripheral vision. Coming in for regular eye exams is the single most important thing you can do to prevent it.
Risk Factors
Non-modifiable risk factors are things you can’t change:
- increased age,
- female gender,
- naturally high levels of pressure in the eye,
- family history of Glaucoma,
- nearsightedness,
- ethnicity; people of African or Hispanic descent have a greater risk of open angle Glaucoma. Those of Asian or Inuit descent have an increased risk for other types of Glaucoma.
Modifiable risk factors or those that you can change:
- manage your blood sugar levels and blood pressure,
- protect your eyes from injuries and infections,
- if you have other risk factors, talk to our eye doctors before using antihistamines, antidepressants, dilating eye drops or steroids, or before beginning a weight training program.
Treatment
Treatment usually involves eye drops to lower the pressure in your eye. In some cases, you may need laser or conventional surgery.
Coverage: as Optometrists, we can monitor patients and initiate treatment, follow-up with patients at risk of developing Glaucoma, and co-manage care with Ophthalmologists when required. Alberta Health Care covers these visits.
Recommendations
Since Glaucoma often has no symptoms, there is no pain and vision loss isn’t immediately noticeable. If left untreated, Glaucoma causes a growing area of vision loss in your peripheral vision. Coming in for regular eye exams is the single most important thing you can do to prevent it.
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1 (587) 409-1700
