Glaucoma

Don’t Lose Sight of Glaucoma

By Scott Hearing, OD FAAO

Glaucoma has been called the “SILENT THIEF OF SIGHT” because the most common form of Glaucoma has no symptoms until it is too late to prevent vision loss. Over 3 Million Americans have glaucoma and half of those are unaware they have the disease.

Glaucoma is caused by an increased pressure inside the eye which causes damage to the optic nerve. Glaucoma is present in all ethnic groups and all ages although, older (50+) people, African Americans, Latin Americans and people with a family history of glaucoma, people who have diabetes, or those who are nearsighted have a higher risk.

Glaucoma can be detected by a simple dilated eye examination and can be treated most of the time using eye drops. There are no cures for glaucoma and treatment can last a lifetime.

For a FREE Glaucoma Screening contact the Christ Fellowship Healthcare Advocacy at 799-7603 Ext. 2196.

Scott Hearing, OD FAAO

Scott Hearing, OD, FAAO is a member of the Christ Fellowship HealthCare Advocacy Advisory Council, Director of Optometric Services for Medical Missions International and a frequent mission doctor on Christ Fellowship international mission trips.