Understanding Glaucoma

Effect of glaucoma

More than 2.5 million people over the age of 40 have glaucoma.  In this disease, there is a progressive reduction of peripheral vision, that eventually begins to effect central vision, and may damage the optic nerve.

Risk for developing glaucoma is increased for those individuals who are over the age of 45, have a family history of the disease, are nearsighted or farsighted, are African American or Hispanic, or have diabetes, migraines or low blood pressure.

Glaucoma treatment 

Left untreated, glaucoma can cause blindness.  Treatment usually consists of eyedrops to lower pressure in the eye itself, and there are also some surgical options.  Research is also investigating whether this is a neurological disorder.

Source: AARP

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics (661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com 5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309