| As part of Glaucoma
Week (August 17th – 23rd 2008), Gerry &
Johnson Optometrists are urging people who have
a family history of glaucoma to have their eyes
examined regularly.
Glaucoma is a progressive eye
disease which can lead to blindness. If you have
a family member who has glaucoma, there is about
a four times greater likelihood
of you developing the disease.
It is critical that people with
a family history of glaucoma have their eyes examined
every two years unless otherwise specified by
their optometrist.
Glaucoma can be treated effectively, especially
if it is detected early. Early detection increases
treatment options, which can significantly slow
the progression of the disease.
We encourage people with glaucoma to play an
active part in reminding their family members
to book an eye examination - it is crucial for
people with glaucoma to speak to their families
about this silent and progressive eye condition
so they understand the necessity of regular eye
examinations.
It is estimated that around 300,000 Australians
have glaucoma and half are undiagnosed. The direct
medical costs of glaucoma are almost $150 million
annually.
Glaucoma facts and tips:
- Regular eye examinations are the key to diagnosis
and more effective treatment for glaucoma.
- There is a significant increased risk of
developing glaucoma if you have a family history
of glaucoma, diabetes, migraine, short sightedness
(myopia), eye injuries, blood pressure or past
or present use of cortisone drugs (steroids).
- If you have a family member who has glaucoma,
you have about a four times greater likelihood
of developing the disease.
- While initially there are few symptoms from
glaucoma, in some cases patients may note blurred
vision, coloured rings around lights, loss of
side vision and/or pain and redness of the eye.
- Glaucoma can be treated effectively, especially
if detected early. Treatment options include
eye drops, laser and surgery.
- If you have glaucoma, encourage your family
to visit an optometrist to have their eyes examined
regularly.
For more information contact
our optometrists or call us on (07) 3210 1822
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