What You Should Know About Glaucoma | The Prescription Shop

Experts estimate that more than 3 million Americans have glaucoma, yet only half of those people are aware that they have it. Each January is recognized as National Glaucoma Awareness Month, and The Prescription Shop would like to help you better understand the severity of this common and often misunderstood disease.

Here are some fast facts you should know:

Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness.
Glaucoma can cause blindness when it is left untreated, and about 10% of people with glaucoma who receive proper treatment will still experience a loss of vision. Worldwide, it’s the second leading cause of blindness.

There’s no cure for glaucoma.
Any vision loss that occurs with glaucoma cannot be regained. Treatments may include medication or surgery in an effort to stop the further loss of vision, but there is no cure. If you are diagnosed with glaucoma, it must be monitored for the rest of your life. This is why experts agree that diagnosis is the first step to preserving as much of your vision as possible.

Everyone is at risk for glaucoma, but diabetics have an increased risk.
Although older people and diabetics are at a higher risk for glaucoma, anyone can get it. Some babies are born with glaucoma, and young adults can get it too. African Americans are at a higher risk of having Glaucoma when they are young.

Glaucoma doesn’t always carry symptoms to warn you.
Another reason it’s so important to have your eyes routinely treated for glaucoma? It often has no symptoms. Pain is typically not associated with the onset of disease, and vision loss usually starts with peripheral or side vision. People often do not even realize there’s a problem until significant vision has been lost.

Here at The Prescription Shop, we are committed to helping the people in our community enjoy happy and healthy lives. We are pleased to help educate you about relevant health topics and look forward to answering your questions in store. Visit our website today to learn more about our pharmacy’s helpful services, and stop by to speak with our friendly pharmacists.