A Comprehensive Eye Exam (NAPSA)—Some eye diseases have no warning signs until damage has been done, but vision loss may be minimized if diseases are detected and treated early. That’s why comprehensive eye exams are essential to maintain- ing eye health and catching prob- lems before symptomsoccur. Approximately 11 million Americans live with macular degeneration, which damages central vision and is a leading cause of legal blindness. Yet many peo- ple have never heard of the condition until they are diagnosed. To reduce your risk of vision loss, see your eye doctorregularly. About 3 million Americans have some form of glaucoma, which affects side vision and can lead to blindness if not treated. An estimated half of these individuals aren’t aware they have the disease. “These statistics are one reason BrightFocus Foundation is offering free resources to help protect sight,” says Stacy Pagos Haller, BrightFocus President. She notes that a comprehen- sive eye exam is more than the eye chart used to test sight at dis- tances. It also involves pupil dilation that allows the doctor to see signs of disease, and tonometry to measure eye fluid pressure, helpful in detecting glaucoma. Comprehensive exams are particularly important for those at risk for vision diseases, including: Persons with a family history of glaucoma; Persons over age 60; Hispanics; and African Americansover age 40. Ask your doctor how often you should schedule exams, based on your family history andrisk factors. BrightFocus offers resources in English and Spanish: Download or request the pocket card, Top Five Questionsto Ask Your Eye Doctor. eView Find an Eye Doctor directories to locate one near you. Order brochures on glaucoma and macular degeneration. To access these resources, visit www.brightfocus.org/eye-health, or call (800) 437-2423. Brightfocus Foundation is a nonprofit organization supporting innovative research worldwide and promoting public awareness to end macular degeneration, glaucoma, and Alzheimer’s disease.
