Naples Eye Physicians Attributes Early Detection of Glaucoma as Critical for Treatment Success

NAPLES, Fla., Feb. 23, 2017 -- Regular eye exams are important for early detection before symptoms of glaucoma emerge. Glaucoma is a serious eye condition with the potential of leading to vision loss and blindness. Vision patients, particularly those who are at high risk, need to be aware of the condition and the current treatment options available. Patients with a family history of glaucoma need to schedule regular eye exams and pay special attention to eye health. The experienced and friendly staff at Naples Eye Physicians look to help vision patients detect and treat glaucoma at its earliest stages. Early detection and treatment of glaucoma improves outcomes and may slow progress.

Glaucoma is known to be the second leading cause of blindness. Over 3 million people in the U.S. have the condition. Glaucoma affects the functioning of the optic nerve and interferes with the transmission of visual information from the retina to the brain. Early stages of the disease have no symptoms. High-risk populations include individuals over 60, African Americans and Hispanics over 40, and others with a family history of glaucoma. When glaucoma progresses, blind spots appear in the side view and blurred vision, mild headaches, halos, and eye pain may result. There is a risk of serious damage to the optic nerve even when there are no obvious symptoms.

“Glaucoma is typically symptomless to patients; however, permanent, irreversible vision loss can already be taking place,” said Andrew G. Iwach, M.D., clinical spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology. “Early detection is paramount to avoiding blindness and managing this disease.”

The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that all people over the age of 40 receive a comprehensive eye exam to check for damage to the optic nerve or other vision issues. Regular eye exams are an important way for vision patients to assess and maintain their eye health.

“Glaucoma is a serious condition with few if any signs in its early stages,” said Paul M. Rougraff, M.D. “This makes regular eye exams and a comprehensive eye exam at 40 so important for early detection. Vision patients should not wait until they experience halos, blurred vision, or eye pain. Early treatment can slow the progress of the condition and help patients achieve better treatment outcomes. We invite patients and high-risk individuals concerned about their eye health to schedule an eye exam today.”  

Paul M. Rougraff, M.D. and Lynn Kepple Byerly, M.D. at Naples Eye Physicians serve residents of Naples, FL. and the surrounding areas. The ophthalmologists and staff provide high-quality vision care and vision services for the entire family. Services include general eye exams, cataract surgery, glaucoma surgery and laser treatment, and macular degeneration.

Call (239) 262-5434 to learn more about early glaucoma detection and treatment options or to schedule an eye exam. Visit http://www.napleseyephysicians.com/ for more details.

Naples Eye Physicians, (239) 262-5434