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. Here we debunk 6 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 are open-angle glaucoma (OAG), in which the drainage structure doesn't allow fluid to flow out properly, and angle-closure glaucoma (ACG), in which the drainage channel becomes too narrow. Both damage the optic nerve, leading to vision loss.

MYTH 2: Only the elderly suffer from glaucoma

FACT: Although people over 60 are at greater risk, there are types of glaucoma that can affect people aged 20 to 50 and even young infants. Other risk factors include family history, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, sickle cell anemia, and steroid medications.

MYTH 3: Glaucoma shows symptoms early on

FACT: Open-angle glaucoma, the most common form, shows virtually no signs or symptoms until its later stages when vision loss sets in. The increased eye pressure causes no pain. The only way to detect glaucoma is 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, including eye drops, oral medications, and laser and surgical procedures that can help slow disease progression.

MYTH 5: Testing for glaucoma is painful

FACT: Testing for glaucoma is practically painless. Tests include a gentle puff of air into each eye and the Goldmann applanation tonometry test, in which an anesthetic eye drop is applied before a brief, painless measurement. Visual field testing and OCT imaging are also painless.

MYTH 6: You can't prevent glaucoma

FACT: Regular eye exams are the best way to prevent vision loss from glaucoma, as blindness or significant vision loss can be prevented if the disease is diagnosed and treated in its early stages.

Contact Dayton Optometric Center in Kettering, Ohio to book your comprehensive eye exam today! Call (937) 228-2020.