A New Year to Focus On Healthy Eyes

Signs to Watch for During Glaucoma Awareness Month

Glaucoma is a common condition for seniors over 60 years old and is the leading cause of vision problems. January marks Glaucoma Awareness Month, an eye condition that damages the optic nerve and can lead to serious health problems, including blindness.

Glaucoma is caused by fluid build-up in the eye, resulting in high eye pressure that can damage the optic nerve. These vital nerves transfer visual images to your brain, and damage to the nerves results in irreversible vision loss or impairment.

In its early stages, Glaucoma has no noticeable symptoms. Some patients do not realize they have the condition, until their sight has already been compromised. However, you can take precautions. Here are some early signs of Glaucoma to watch for:

• Headaches
• Nausea or vomiting
• Eye pain
• Blurred vision, blind spots, loss of side vision, or halos
• Eye redness

“We want our patients to have the best eye health, and that means seeking proper care and treatment as soon as possible,” says Dr. Steven Rhee of Hawaiian Eye Center. “We encourage everyone, especially those over 60, to schedule routine, comprehensive eye exams.”

Patients can schedule a comprehensive dilated eye exam at Hawaiian Eye Center today to safeguard their eyesight for the future. To make an appointment or to learn more, go to hawaiianeye.com.