6 Common Myths About Glaucoma

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. OAG develops slowly, and usually by the time people perceive symptoms, they already have optic nerve damage.

MYTH 2: Only the elderly suffer from glaucoma

FACT: Although people over 60 are at a greater risk of developing open-angle glaucoma, there are other types of glaucoma that can affect people aged 20 to 50 and even young infants. Those with a higher risk include African Americans and Hispanics, individuals with a family history of glaucoma, patients with cardiovascular disease or diabetes, and people taking steroid medications over the long term.

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. Since peripheral vision is the first to go, you may not recognize vision loss until your vision has become significantly impaired. 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. One of the tests includes a non-contact device that blows a gentle puff of air into each eye to test the intraocular pressure. The most accurate tests, visual field testing and OCT, are both also painless.

MYTH 6: You can't prevent glaucoma

FACT: Regular eye exams are the only way to prevent glaucoma-related blindness, as vision loss can be prevented if the disease is diagnosed and treated in the early stages. Getting your eyes checked regularly can ensure that any existing eye problems are detected early enough to prevent or slow ocular damage. Contact Grove City Vision Center in Grove City to book your comprehensive eye exam today!