Glaucoma Institute Of Beverly Hills Observes Glaucoma Week

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that cause progressive damage of the optic nerve at the point where it leaves the eye to carry visual information to the brain.

Glaucoma Institute of Beverly Hills, in partnership with the World Glaucoma Association (WGA) and World Glaucoma Patient Association (WGPA), is currently observing World Glaucoma Week that runs March 9-15 by raising awareness of Glaucoma and encouraging people at risk for glaucoma in the Los Angeles County community to be screened.

These at risk groups include people: with a family history of glaucoma; over age 60; of African, Asian or Hispanic descent; and people who have had a previous eye injury.

Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness and it is estimated that over 2.2 million Americans have it but only half of those know they have it. Everyone is at risk, but some people are more susceptible than others. Although there is currently no complete cure for glaucoma and the vision loss is irreversible, timely treatment prevents blindness.

Glaucoma occurs when there is damage to the optic nerve inside the eye often due to increased eye pressure.

Open-angle glaucoma is the most common form, accounting for at least 90 percent of all glaucoma cases. It is typically related to aging and caused by the slow blockage of drainage channels resulting in increased eye pressure.

There are no symptoms except for gradual peripheral vision loss and no pain or even sensation is associated with this increased eye pressure.

The onset of blindness from glaucoma can be prevented by early detection and proper treatment. It is important to be screened for glaucoma and to have a comprehensive eye exam, including a dilated eye exam to document the shape and color of the optic nerve. Medication and/or surgery can help halt or slow the progression of vision loss. Prescription eye drops work to prevent glaucoma progression if taken consistently. Laser or conventional surgery may be necessary to help maintain normal eye pressure.

The Glaucoma Institute of Beverly Hills is dedicated to the research and treatment of glaucoma. They are committed to providing the highest quality personal glaucoma eye care management for their patients, conducting medical research to advance the understanding of the mechanisms of glaucoma, and developing new therapies to improve the quality of life and prevent blindness in patients with glaucoma.

For more information, visit www.glaucoma-institute.com.