Don’t Be Blinded by Glaucoma

Millions of Americans have glaucoma, a group of eye conditions that can cause irreversible vision loss, but only half know they have it.

That’s because people with glaucoma often don’t show symptoms. Left untreated, glaucoma will eventually cause blindness, but when detected early, its progression can be slowed or even stopped.

Anyone can get glaucoma, so take steps to lower your risk and save your sight:

• Schedule an annual vision exam. If you are in a high-risk group or age 40 or older, get a comprehensive dilated eye exam. Your RRD vision benefits from EyeMed provide coverage for exams.
• Know your family’s health history. Talk to your family about their vision. The most common type of glaucoma doesn’t have symptoms and is hereditary.
• Take care of yourself. Keeping a healthy weight, managing your blood pressure, staying active and avoiding tobacco all help to prevent glaucoma.
• Manage your diabetes. According to the American Diabetes Association, you are 40 percent more likely to develop glaucoma if you have diabetes.
• Protect your eyes from injury. An eye injury can cause traumatic glaucoma or secondary glaucoma. Wear protective eyewear whenever you’re working in or near conditions that can cause injury.

Are you at risk?
Learn more about glaucoma and determine your risk.