The silent thief of sight

Since January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month, I want to shed some light on this eye disease that is one of the leading causes of vision loss. Often called “the silent thief of sight,” there are typically no early warning signs.

Glaucoma is a group of progressive eye diseases that damage the optic nerve and can result in vision loss or blindness. Because symptoms often do not appear in the early stages, regular dilated eye exams are critical. Left untreated, glaucoma can lead to significant and irreversible vision loss.

Risk factors include being over age 40. People at higher risk also include those with a family history of glaucoma, diabetes, long-term steroid use, severe nearsightedness, or a history of eye injury or trauma.

Different forms of glaucoma may present different symptoms. Warning signs can include:

• Severe eye pain or intense headaches
• Blurred vision, especially loss of peripheral (side) vision
• Nausea accompanied by eye pain
• Eye redness and tenderness

Anyone experiencing symptoms should contact an eye care professional. While there is no cure for glaucoma, early diagnosis and treatment can help slow the progression of vision loss.

Magnifiers & More works with individuals diagnosed with glaucoma to help them manage vision impairment and maintain independence. Assistive options include electronic magnification, large-print items, glare-control glasses, telescopic lenses to bring images into central vision, specialized lighting and assistive apps.

Magnifiers & More is located at 7775 Mentor Avenue in Mentor. Visit MagnifiersAndMore.net or call 440-946-3363 for more information. Stop in anytime to shop or make an appointment for a consultation.Body of story goes here.