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Monday, May 31, 2010

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a group of diseases that can damage the eye's optic nerve and result in vision loss and blindness. While glaucoma can strike anyone, the risk is much greater for people over 60. It usually happens when the fluid pressure inside the eyes slowly rises, damaging the optic nerve. Often there are no symptoms at first, but a comprehensive eye exam can detect it.

People at risk should get eye exams at least every two years. They include
• African Americans over age 40
• People over age 60, especially Mexican Americans
• People with a family history of glaucoma

Early treatment can help protect your eyes against vision loss. Treatments usually include prescription eyedrops and/or surgery.

For more information on glaucoma, visit these great web sites:

NIH Senior Health Glaucoma
National Eye Institute Glaucoma Facts
Glaucoma Foundation booklet (great PDF on glaucoma from the Glaucoma Foundation)
Medline Plus Interactive Tutorial
More information from MedlinePlus

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