Glaucoma -- Are You at Risk?

January is Glaucoma Awareness Month, and the American Academy of Ophthalmology urges everyone to get an eye examination for glaucoma. This is especially important if you are at increased risk. Those at risk are:

African Americans older than 40

Hispanics

Have a family history of glaucoma

Over 60

Have a chronic health condition such as diabetes

Have had a serious eye injury

Being severely nearsighted

Glaucoma accounts for 12% of blindness in the United States. It's due to elevated pressure inside the eye, which damages the optic nerve. Although it can be controlled, lost vision can never be regained. Early detection is vital to stopping its progress, so visit your eye health professional.