Glaucoma Awareness Month: Protecting Your Sight Starts with Knowledge

January is Glaucoma Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide. Often called “the silent thief of sight,” glaucoma can progress without noticeable symptoms until significant vision loss has already occurred. The good news though is that early detection and treatment can help preserve vision.

What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, which is essential for sending visual information from the eye to the brain. This damage is often, but not always, caused by increased pressure inside the eye.

Why Glaucoma Is So Dangerous

What makes glaucoma particularly concerning is its lack of early warning signs. Many people experience no pain, redness, or noticeable vision changes in the early stages. Vision loss typically begins in the peripheral (side) vision and progresses slowly, making it difficult to detect without an eye exam.

Once vision is lost from glaucoma, it cannot be restored, which is why awareness and prevention are critical.

Who Is at Risk?

Anyone can develop glaucoma, but certain groups are at higher risk, including:

• Adults over age 60

• People with a family history of glaucoma

• Individuals with diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease

• Those who are African American, Hispanic, or Asian

• People who are severely nearsighted or farsighted

If you fall into one or more of these categories, regular eye exams are especially important.

The Importance of Regular Eye Exams

Because glaucoma often has no symptoms, comprehensive dilated eye exams are the only reliable way to detect it early. Eye care professionals can measure eye pressure, examine the optic nerve, and assess visual fields to identify signs of glaucoma before vision loss occurs.

Early diagnosis allows treatment, such as prescription eye drops, laser therapy, or surgery to slow or prevent further damage.

Living Well with Glaucoma

A glaucoma diagnosis doesn’t mean blindness is inevitable. With proper treatment and ongoing care, many people with glaucoma maintain good vision for life. Managing glaucoma requires consistency: taking medications as prescribed, attending follow-up appointments, and communicating with your eye doctor about any changes in vision.

How You Can Help Raise Awareness

During Glaucoma Awareness Month, consider:

• Scheduling or encouraging loved ones to schedule an eye exam

• Talking openly about eye health and family history

• Supporting organizations that fund glaucoma research and education

  
  

Your vision is precious, and glaucoma doesn’t have to steal it. Awareness is the first step toward prevention. This Glaucoma Awareness Month, take time to prioritize your eye health and encourage others to do the same. Early detection saves sight!