NEHEP Graph Encouraging Having a Dilated Eye Exam
January is glaucoma awareness month. This month, APH VisionAware is partnering with the National Eye Health Education Program (NEHEP) to provide important resources and updated information about glaucoma and other eye conditions.
According to NEHEP, glaucoma is a leading cause of vision loss and blindness in the United States and requires a comprehensive dilated eye exam to detect and treat it properly.
Three Important Facts about Glaucoma
Anyone can get glaucoma, but some people have a higher risk: individuals with a family history, people over 60, in particular if you are Hispanic/Latino, over 40 and African American.
People who have diabetes or high blood pressure should get a dilated eye exam at least annually.
Glaucoma usually has no early warning signs such as pain or blurry vision. Only when glaucoma has progressed to an advanced stage will it cause vision changes. (Glaucoma | National Eye Institute)
What is a Comprehensive Dilated Eye Exam
The doctor inserts eye drops to widen the pupil to be able to look at the inside of the eye, including the optic nerve, which can be damaged by glaucoma. ( Healthy Vision Starts With a Dilated Eye Exam | National Eye Institute)
During a comprehensive exam, the doctor will measure eye pressure, visual acuity, and your visual field (side vision) in addition to checking your overall eye health. (Eye and Low Vision Examinations: What to Expect and Advocate For – ConnectCenter. After the exam your eyes will be light sensitive for a while, and you will need to wear sunglasses (note, some doctors offer disposable glasses).
Lived Experiences: The Importance of Early Diagnosis, Treatment, and Referral to Vision Rehabilitation Services
Former VisionAware contributor Stuart Carduner states:
“As a glaucoma patient, I know how important it is for those with glaucoma and their family members to understand … how glaucoma is diagnosed, and what comes next. I encourage you to keep up with the most current research. If you have received a glaucoma diagnosis, the most important thing is to remain proactive about your own care.”
Former APH VisionAware peer Steph McCoy offers this sage advice:
“I encourage readers to take your glaucoma diagnosis seriously, to find out all you can about it, and adhere to your treatment guidelines and schedule. Ask questions of your doctor and press for clear answers. Also educate your doctor as to the critical importance of learning skills to live with vision loss and referring patients for vision rehabilitation services, so that regardless of what happens with their vision, they can live full and productive lives.”
Phil Shanholtzer discusses his experiences in his personal story:
“I would …prefer to have avoided the glaucoma experience, but it continues to teach me lessons…I am more willing to ask for help reading signs and menus, especially in places with dim lighting. Magnifiers help with small print or close-up work, but sometimes I just have to look for the nearest pair of eyes and say, “Can you read this?” And people are happy to help… I have connected with a support group through the Prevention of Blindness Society of Metropolitan Washington. We’re all dealing with the problems associated with low vision, coping, and adjusting. That’s what we talk about: ways to cope, technology and services, adjustment to life with low or no vision, and how we get through our days.
Years ago, I spent some time with a cousin who at 90 was still living an active life. He acknowledged that he was limited in some ways but added, ‘I can still do a great many things!”’ I have adopted those as words to live by. “
In summary: make it your New Years resolution this year to get a dilated eye exam. It is important to your overall eye health!
A Guide to Living with Glaucoma – ConnectCenter
Eye and Low Vision Examinations: What to Expect and Advocate For – ConnectCenter
Glaucoma Research – Glaucoma Research Foundation