Glaucoma is an eye disease in which increased pressure causes progressive, permanent vision loss and even blindness. Unfortunately, many misconceptions about the disease can leave you misinformed. Below we sort fact from fiction by debunking 6 of the most common glaucoma myths.

Glaucoma Facts vs. Myths

MYTH 1: Glaucoma is a single disease

FACT: Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases; the most common ones are open-angle glaucoma (OAG) and angle-closure glaucoma (ACG). In open-angle glaucoma, the drainage structure in your eye doesn't allow the fluid inside the eye to flow out as it should, causing an increase in internal ocular pressure that damages the optic nerve. In angle-closure glaucoma, the drainage channel becomes too narrow, causing increased eye pressure.

MYTH 2: Only the elderly suffer from glaucoma

FACT: Although people over 60 are at a greater risk, there are other types of glaucoma that can affect people aged 20 to 50 and even young infants. Additional risk factors include: African Americans and Hispanics, individuals with a family history of glaucoma, and patients with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or sickle cell anemia.

MYTH 3: Glaucoma shows symptoms early on

FACT: The most common form of glaucoma, open-angle glaucoma, shows virtually no signs or symptoms until its later stages when vision loss sets in. The only way to detect glaucoma is to undergo a comprehensive eye exam.

MYTH 4: Nothing can be done once you have glaucoma

FACT: While there's currently no cure for glaucoma, many effective treatment options exist: eye drops, oral medications, as well as laser and surgical procedures that can help slow glaucoma progression.

MYTH 5: Testing for glaucoma is painful

FACT: Testing for glaucoma is practically painless. Tests include a gentle puff of air into each eye and visual field testing and OCT imaging, both of which are also painless.

MYTH 6: You can't prevent glaucoma

FACT: Regular eye exams are the only way to prevent glaucoma-related vision loss, as blindness or significant vision loss can be prevented if the disease is diagnosed and treated in the early stages.

Contact Optique Family Vision Care in Springfield to book your comprehensive eye exam today!