World Glaucoma Week is held annually in March at the initiative of the World Association of Glaucoma Societies and the World Patient Association, suffering from glaucoma. The goal is to inform the population about the importance of timely diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma to prevent the development of blindness.
Glaucoma - eye disease, which occurs due to increased intraocular pressure. It is also called the "quiet theft of vision" , Since it begins asymptomatically.
This is a fairly common disease, that may occur at any age. At age 40-45 years primary glaucoma is observed in about 0,1% people. In the age group 50 – 60 Glaucoma years covers 1,5% , at age older 70 years - 3%
If Glaucoma is not treated, Gradually begins to narrow the field of view, that ultimately leads to complete loss of vision. Vision, lost due to glaucoma, is not recoverable.
Why Glaucoma is dangerous?
- In the first stages it is imperceptible. Often a person notices symptoms only then, Codes are lost part of the field of view.
- The most important is the early detection of glaucoma, yet there is no organic and functional changes in optic nerve.
- Glaucoma may go unnoticed for a long time and show itself at once a sharp attack.
What are the risk factors?
- Age (Older 40 years).
- Heredity and family history.
- The presence of a concomitant vascular (atherosclerosis, Hypertension) and endocrine (Diabetes mellitus) pathology.
- Smoking and chronic stress.
In what first signs should you consult an ophthalmologist?
- Blurred vision, the appearance of "nets" in front of the eyes.
- Rainbow circles when looking at the light source.
- Feeling heaviness, pressure and discomfort in the eye.
- Decreased vision in dusk.
- Minor but prolonged pain around the eyes.
Glaucoma's diagnosis is not a reason to despair. The course of this disease is controlled by medication, laser or surgery or their combination. Тому своєчасне звернення до лікаря-офтальмолога і рання діагностика допоможуть зберегти один з найдивовижніших дарів природи – ваш зір.
