Newswise — About half of the estimated 4 million Americans with glaucoma aren't aware they have the condition. Not knowing could mean a loss of vision, says the July issue of Mayo Clinic Health Letter.

Glaucoma isn't a single disease, but a group of diseases. The common feature of these diseases is pressure-induced damage to the optic nerve, a bundle of nerve fibers that connect to the back of the eye.

The first sign of glaucoma you may notice is loss of peripheral vision. But by then, vision loss is usually significant and permanent. Your eye care provider can detect glaucoma during routine eye exams, before vision loss occurs.

If glaucoma is diagnosed early, treatments are typically effective in stopping or significantly slowing vision loss. Eyedrops and oral drugs can be used to decrease eye pressure. Surgery is an option if other treatments aren't effective.

If you're over age 40, schedule a glaucoma screening every two to four years. Over age 65, schedule a screening every year or two.

If you're at high risk for glaucoma, your doctor could recommend earlier or more frequent screenings. Risk factors are a family history of the disease, African ancestry, diabetes, certain rare eye diseases and having had an eye injury or having used any corticosteriod preparation for a prolonged period.

This is a highlight from the July issue of Mayo Clinic Health Letter. You may cite this publication as often as you wish. Also, you may reprint up to four articles annually without cost. More frequent reprinting is allowed for a fee. Mayo Clinic Health Letter attribution is required. Include the following subscription information as your editorial policies permit: Call toll free for subscription information, 800-333-9037, extension 9PR1.

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