|
EyeCare America, the public service foundation of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, encourages those without insurance to take advantage of its national Glaucoma EyeCare Program. The program offers glaucoma eye exams for those at increased risk of glaucoma. To see if you, a loved one or a friend is eligible to receive a referral for an eye exam, call (800) 391-EYES (3937), 24 hours a day, every day, year-round. All eligible callers receive a referral to one of EyeCare America's 7,500 volunteer ophthalmologists.
The Glaucoma EyeCare Program is designed for people who:
• Are U.S. citizens or legal residents
• Have not had an eye exam in 12 months or more
• Are deemed to be at increased risk for glaucoma (as determined by family history, race, age).
What are the symptoms for glaucoma?
While occasionally the condition may come on suddenly, most cases progress so slowly there are often no warning signs before damage inside the eye has already occurred. In most cases, a person's side vision (peripheral vision) is noticeably affected.
Who is at risk?
While the causes for glaucoma are not completely known, we do know that risk factors for its development include family history, race and older age. African Americans and Hispanics are also at higher risk of getting the disease.
How is glaucoma treated?
• Eye drops that lower eye pressure
• Laser therapy that allows for better drainage of fluids inside the eye
• Eye surgery to create a new drainage canal.
If not treated, glaucoma can and does lead to total blindness. Glaucoma is easily detected with a medical eye examination. Ophthalmologists can measure the pressure inside the eye with a quick and painless office test. Glaucoma doesn't have to interfere with leading a happy, sighted and fulfilling life. Detecting the disease early can save your sight.
More information can be found at www.eyecareamerica.org. Glaucoma can mean you're only seeing a small part of the picture.
|
|
SIGN
UP FOR FREE
