March 6, 2009 – Norfolk, VA. – Glaucoma is a silent thief that can steal your eyesight before you even realize it. That’s why early detection and treatment is so important.
In recognition of World Glaucoma Day, Virginia Eye Consultants will offer a free screening open to the public on Thursday, March 12. Screening will take place from 4-7 p.m. at the central office, located at 241 Corporate Blvd. in Norfolk. No appointment is necessary.
“We are pleased to offer this valuable public service to the greater Norfolk community,” says John Sheppard, M.D., a board-certified corneal specialist at Virginia Eye Consultants. “World Glaucoma Day is a global initiative to raise awareness about this serious eye condition – the second most common cause of blindness.”
On World Glaucoma Day, Virginia Eye Consultants will be joining hundreds of other vision care centers around the world, from China and Hong Kong to Europe and the United States to offer education and screenings for the public.
There are several types of glaucoma, but the most common is a gradual, progressive condition that slowly damages the optic nerve, a vital structure in the eye that sends visual information to the brain and makes eyesight possible.
“There is no cure for glaucoma,” says Dr. Sheppard, “but there are several effective treatments that can stop its progression and prevent blindness.
The risk for developing glaucoma increases with age, so it’s important to have a regular eye exam, especially after age 40, even if your vision seems fine. Typically glaucoma has no symptoms or warning signs until vision loss occurs. Usually peripheral or side vision is the first to be affected.
What can you expect during your glaucoma screening? Virginia Eye Consultants will be conducting a simple 10-15 minute exam of both eyes to check for visual acuity, the health of interior structures like the optic nerve and the overall pressure of fluids within the eye.
For more information about glaucoma screenings, please call Virginia Eye Consultants at 757-622-4866 or go to www.virginiaeyeconsultants.com.
About Virginia Eye Consultants
Virginia Eye Consultants has been Eastern Virginia’s leading vision care center since it was established in 1969. All of the physicians are fellowship-trained and board-certified specialists, which sets a high standard for care. The center has a national reputation for comprehensive medical and surgical vision care, with expertise in cataract surgery, glaucoma, corneal transplantation, refractive surgery, retinal diseases, macular degeneration and more. Two locations are offered in Norfolk and Hampton. More information can be found at www.virginiaeyeconsultants.com
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