Although recommendations for implementing the new program were provided to all Air Force medical treatment facility optometry clinics, Nicolas said clinic commanders have the option of using their best judgment in implementing the program. Although it is much more common in people over 40, it can strike at any age. The most commonly diagnosed form of glaucoma is chronic open angle glaucoma. This condition occurs when the pressure inside eye becomes too high because an imbalance in the flow of fluid in and out of the eye. There are usually no symptom that warn people that they have this type of glaucoma.
Vision loss is extremely gradual and begins in periphery.
The condition is a most always painless and can only be detected in its earliest stages by a complete eye examination. Most medications work by either slowing down the flow of fluid into the eye or increasing the flow rate out of the eye. Generally, the earlier glaucoma is detected, the better the chances for successful treatment and the prevention of vision loss. Current medications do not cure glaucoma - they manage and control it long as the patient uses the medications. Since the earliest stages glaucoma can only be detected b a complete eye examination, it very important to visit an optometrist on a regular basis.