Glaucoma refers to a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, the vital structure that carries visual information from the eye to the brain.
The most significant and modifiable risk factor for this damage is elevated eye pressure, which a clinician can measure during an exam.
January is Glaucoma Awareness Month, a time when health experts are stressing the critical importance of understanding and detecting glaucoma early.
This eye disease often develops without pain or obvious warning signs, which is why it’s sometimes called the “silent thief of sight.” By the time people notice vision changes, significant and permanent damage may already have occurred.
One reason glaucoma is so dangerous is that it typically affects peripheral (side) vision first, which the brain can compensate for. People may feel their vision is fine until the disease has progressed significantly—highlighting why routine eye exams are essential, especially for those at higher risk.
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Who Is at Risk?
Certain groups face a greater chance of developing glaucoma. These include:
- Individuals with a family history of the disease
- Black and Latino individuals, who may experience more aggressive forms
- Adults over age 40 (and especially those over 60)
- Anyone who has used steroids for long periods or has other eye conditions
Because glaucoma is typically painless and the earliest changes are subtle, regular, comprehensive eye exams are crucial for early detection.
Early Detection
Catching glaucoma early makes a huge difference. When diagnosed before significant nerve damage has occurred, treatments such as medications or laser therapy can help lower eye pressure and slow disease progression.
This approach is similar to how chronic conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes are managed, early and ongoing care can help protect long-term health.
Experts emphasize early detection as the most effective tool currently available. Because glaucoma doesn’t usually cause symptoms until later stages, eye pressure measurements, nerve imaging, and visual field testing during routine exams are essential to identifying the disease before it leads to major vision loss.
What you can do to protect your sight:
a. Schedule regular eye examinations, especially if you are over 40 or have other risk factors
b. Know your family’s eye health history
c. Follow treatment recommendations if glaucoma or elevated eye pressure is detected
With awareness, routine screening, and timely treatment, many cases of vision loss from glaucoma can be prevented or slowed, a critical message this Glaucoma Awareness Month.
Source: news-medical.net
