Be On The Look Out For Eye Disease
By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Over the years we have made great advances in patient education but there is one area that is not discussed enough but it is important. Many Americans are unaware of the warning signs of eye disease that could blind them if not detected and treated soon enough.
The three that are the most concerning are glaucoma, diabetic eye disease, and age-related macular degeneration. Some of these conditions have no warning signs and can only be detected by physical exam.
Glaucoma needs to be picked up on an exam but can damage the optic nerve and can result in vision loss and blindness.
Other issues just need better education.
It is estimated that half of the people with diabetes are unaware that diabetes increases the risk for blindness.
The easiest way to check for problems with eye health is to set up an appointment with an opthamologist or ask your family doctor what you need to know.