Ophthalmology foundation offers free glaucoma screenings for uninsured

Every winter across the United States, heavy rains bring thoughts of flooding, backed up drainage systems and overflowing streets. When drains and city sewers get clogged, the overflow of winter rains can bring a once bustling community to a grinding halt. Like the back up caused by winter's inevitable downpour, poor drainage of a person's eye can lead to high eye pressure which is a cause of glaucoma.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology Foundation invites those without insurance to take advantage of its national screening program called EyeCare America. The program offers eye exams for those at increased risk of developing glaucoma. Family history, race and age play a big part in evaluating your risk. African-Americans, Hispanics and people with diabetes are also at higher risk of getting the disease.

Here are some things to keep in mind:

·         Glaucoma is often caused by increased pressure that can develop when the fluids in the eye are not draining properly

·         The condition eventually damages the nerve that connects the eye to the brain and leads to loss of vision

·         If caught early, Glaucoma can be treated with eye drops that lower eye pressure, laser therapy that allows for better drainage of fluids inside the eye, or eye surgery to create a new drainage canal

Nearly 3 million people have glaucoma, but half do not realize it because there are often no warning symptoms. An eye exam can save your sight and all that is needed for detection is a quick and painless office test.

To find out if you are eligible to receive a referral for an eye exam and care, or to request free eye care information, call 1-800-391-EYES (3937). All eligible callers receive a referral to one of EyeCare America's 7,000 volunteer ophthalmologists.

The program is designed for people who are U.S. citizens or legal residents, have not had an eye exam in 12 months or more, or are deemed to be at increased risk for glaucoma (as determined by family history, race or age). Those eligible for a referral through the glaucoma program receive a glaucoma eye exam and the initiation of treatment, if deemed necessary. Uninsured patients will receive the above care at no charge.

Source: EyeCare America