January is glaucoma awareness month, and if one of your New Year’s resolutions was improved health we are here to remind you not to forget the importance of eye health.
About Glaucoma
Did you know glaucoma is the leading cause of vision loss and blindness in the United States? If glaucoma is detected early it can usually be treated, and vision loss prevented; once vision is lost to glaucoma, it cannot be reversed.
Glaucoma is a condition caused by a buildup of intraocular pressure which in term damages the ocular nerve. Although glaucoma can affect anyone, higher risk categories include those with a family history of the disease, African Americans over the age of 40, and anyone over the age of 60, but particularly Latinos.
Glaucoma Awareness Month
Some three million Americans have glaucoma, but estimates say only about half know they have the disease due to the lack of early symptoms and warning signs, and slow progression. That’s why early detection and treatment are so important. Early symptoms of the disease can include blurred vision and headaches, but can progress to more severe headaches, the appearance of visual ‘halos’, and nausea/vomiting. The best prevention for glaucoma is regular eye exams! Once detected, glaucoma can be treated with eye drops, and in some cases surgery.
FSAs & CreditCare
It’s a new year, so now is a good time to check up on your employer health benefits, including your vision plan. Some employers allow a grace period through March to spend 2016 FSA dollars, and Eye Elegance is now accepting Care Credit, as well.
Resources
For more information on glaucoma and eye health, visit the following websites:
Make a commitment to your eye health in 2017, and schedule your next eye exam soon! Don’t forget to connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Google+, Pinterest, and YouTube.