Too many people are believing myths about glaucoma, keeping them in the dark about this serious eye disease. Let us debunk four myths about glaucoma so you can have the most optimal eyesight possible.

Myth 1 – Glaucoma is only in one eye.

Many people notice an increased amount of pressure in one eye, which leads them to believe that the issue is only in that eye. However, glaucoma is normally found in both eyes, and the symptoms will become more apparent as time goes on.

Myth 2 – Glaucoma is associated with old age.

Glaucoma is found most often in people who are over 60 years old; however, it can affect people of any age. Certain risk factors that may increase your chance of developing glaucoma early includes other eye diseases, family history of glaucoma, or your race (African Americans have a higher likelihood of developing this eye condition).

Myth 3 – Glaucoma can be cured.

Unfortunately, there is no cure to glaucoma yet. However, your eye doctor can prescribe medication that will help control your symptoms or recommend surgery to relieve your pain. Your treatment option will depend on the severity of your condition and which type you have:

• Open Angle Glaucoma: its symptoms progress slowly and are difficult to detect.
• Closed Angle Glaucoma: its symptoms are sudden, severe, and painful.

Myth 4 – Glaucoma symptoms are severe.

This myth has part truth to it. Closed angle glaucoma does produce sudden and severe symptoms; however, closed angle glaucoma accounts for less than 20% of glaucoma cases. Open angle glaucoma’s symptoms progress slowly, which is the reason it is referred to as the “thief of sight”. It’s important to contact an eye doctor right away if you notice subtle symptoms of an eye disease like glaucoma, as vision loss cannot be restored but your remaining vision can be preserved.

Our Eye Doctors Can Help

Our team of eye doctors can accurately diagnose your eye issues and talk to you about treatment options. We want to help you see better because we believe your vision can improve your overall quality of life! If you have any questions about glaucoma or other eye diseases, don’t hesitate to call us: 478-923-5872.