Welness WWire December 2012

Don't Let Glaucoma Steal Your Sight:

January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month
There's good news about glaucoma<http://go.edirect.vsp.com/l/a/-bi/wl/gbck/4v/nm9k/click.emaildirect [1]>, an eye disorder that affects about three million Americans. While not curable, glaucoma is often very treatable if detected early. New medications and surgery can slow or stop the progression of the disease—and prevent total blindness.

Mostly affecting people over 40, glaucoma is caused by too much pressure in the eye. The early stages are usually symptom-free but the slow progression of damage to the retina or optic nerve can cause vision loss and blindness within three to 15 years.

How do you know if you have glaucoma if you don't have symptoms? Get an annual eye exam, especially if you are in a high risk category<http://go.edirect.vsp.com/l/a/-bi/wl/gbck/4v/nm9k/click.emaildirect [1]>. Your race, as well as your health condition, can increase your risk for glaucoma. Locate <http://go.edirect.vsp.com/l/a/-bi/wl/gbck/yv/um9k/click.emaildirect [2]> a VSP doctor and schedule your comprehensive WellVision Exam®.

Looking for more eyecare information for you and your family? Visit the Eye Care Information<http://go.edirect.vsp.com/l/a/-bi/wl/gbck/k9/zz9k/click.emaildirect [3]> section of vsp.com [4] for articles, tips and special offers for VSP members only.