Turning a Blind Eye

If you've been taking a steroid medication for a long time, you could be at risk of developing glaucoma--a group of diseases typically associated with elevated pressure inside the eye that can result in blindness. Others at risk are those with diabetes, seniors, anyone with a close relative who has glaucoma and African Americans (who have a higher risk of developing glaucoma than any other racial group).

There are usually no early warning signs for glaucoma. However, some symptoms may occur in the later stages of the disease, such as loss of peripheral vision, difficulty focusing on close work, seeing halos around lights and frequent changes in prescription glasses.

Unfortunately, once vision is lost, it is gone forever. Thus, it is a good idea to have your eyes examined regularly. For more information on glaucoma visit www.medem.com, the partner Web site for the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

COPYRIGHT 2001 Aerobics and Fitness Association of America
COPYRIGHT 2001 Gale Group