{"id":7945,"date":"2025-01-29T19:30:00","date_gmt":"2025-01-29T19:30:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/itsveterans.com\/?p=7945"},"modified":"2025-01-29T19:30:00","modified_gmt":"2025-01-29T19:30:00","slug":"keep-an-eye-out-for-glaucoma","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/itsveterans.com\/?p=7945","title":{"rendered":"Keep an eye out for glaucoma\u00a0\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"

Originally published:<\/strong> 2025-01-29T19:30:00+00:00. Historical source article: benefits, rules, amounts and deadlines may have changed. Check the official source for current information.<\/p>\n

More than 4 million Americans live with glaucoma<\/a>, including at least 1.5 million with symptoms that limit their eyesight. Glaucoma is an eye disease<\/a> that begins when the optic nerve is damaged, often from a buildup of eye pressure, and can result in vision loss and even blindness. Glaucoma is the second leading<\/a> cause of permanent blindness in the United States, but it is difficult to detect because early symptoms often go unnoticed.<\/p>\n

Often called a \u201csilent disease,\u201d only about half<\/a> of Americans living with glaucoma are aware they have it. That\u2019s why regular eye exams and glaucoma screenings with an eye doctor or specialist are crucial for detecting and treating glaucoma early.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n

VA is highlighting tips and resources to help you keep watch on your eye health. Rates of glaucoma have risen<\/a> significantly in the last 10 years, which is why it is more important than ever to know all you can about this disease and how to prevent it.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n

What are the signs of glaucoma?\u00a0<\/h2>\n

While glaucoma may not produce symptoms early on, there are some signs<\/a> you should look out for. Loss of side vision and the narrowing of your eyesight<\/a> to a small tunnel are early signs of moderate to advanced glaucoma.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Is glaucoma treatable?\u00a0<\/h2>\n

No cure exists for glaucoma, making it a life-long disease for those affected. However, if caught early, it is treatable<\/a>, and blindness can be averted through methods as simple as eye drops. Eye surgeries may be a treatment option for more advanced cases.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Who is at risk for glaucoma?\u00a0<\/h2>\n

While everyone should schedule regular eye exams and glaucoma screenings, there are some populations and groups that are more likely<\/a> to develop glaucoma than others:\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n