Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that involves an elevation in pressure inside the eye. Increased pressure results from a buildup of excess fluid in the eye. Glaucoma is a dangerous eye condition because it frequently progresses without obvious symptoms. This is why it is frequently referred to as "the sneak thief of sight."

Glaucoma can impair vision by creating pressure that damages the optic nerve, The "cable" of nerve fibers that transmits messages about what we see from the eye to the brain.

According to the Glaucoma Research Foundation glaucoma affects more than 3 million Americans. It is also reported that glaucoma is the third leading cause of legal blindness in Caucasians, and the leading cause of blindness in African Americans. Although anyone can get glaucoma, some people are at higher risk. Those at risk include:

• People over the age of 60.
  
  
• African Americans over the age of 40.
  
  
• People with a family history of glaucoma.

At Metrolina Eye Associates our physicians are highly skilled at early detection of glaucoma, and treat it with the most up to date medicines and technology.  If you have glaucoma, or are in one of the above at risk groups call for your appointment today. (704) 289-5455