Each January, we observe National Glaucoma Awareness Month—a time dedicated to raising awareness about the “Sneak Thief of Sight.” At Eyeson Group in Randolph, we aim to help our community better understand this silent yet serious eye disease that affects over 3 million Americans and millions more worldwide.
Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness across the globe, often progressing without early symptoms until irreversible damage occurs. During Glaucoma Awareness Month, we encourage everyone to learn about the risk factors, early detection methods, and treatments that can save sight before it’s too late.
Understanding Glaucoma: The Silent Threat to Vision
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve—the part of the eye responsible for transmitting visual information to the brain. The damage usually results from abnormally high pressure in the eye, known as intraocular pressure (IOP). Over time, this pressure can permanently harm the optic nerve, leading to vision loss and, if untreated, blindness.
Because glaucoma often develops without noticeable symptoms, it’s earned its nickname—the “Sneak Thief of Sight.” Many people only realize something is wrong once peripheral vision starts to fade, which means significant nerve damage has already occurred.
Who Is at Risk for Glaucoma?
While glaucoma can affect anyone, certain factors increase the likelihood of developing this eye disease:
- Age: Risk increases after 60, or after 40 for African Americans.
- Family history: Having relatives with glaucoma significantly raises your risk.
- Ethnicity: African American, Japanese, and Hispanic populations are more prone to the disease.
- Medical conditions: Diabetes, hypertension, or heart disease can contribute to higher eye pressure.
- Eye injuries or surgeries: Past trauma or surgery can alter eye structure and increase risk.
- Prolonged corticosteroid use: Certain medications can elevate intraocular pressure.
- Severe nearsightedness (myopia) or farsightedness (hyperopia): These refractive errors may predispose the eye to fluid drainage issues.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle—including a nutrient-rich diet, regular exercise, and protecting your eyes from UV rays—can help lower your risk of developing glaucoma.
Types of Glaucoma
There are two primary forms of glaucoma, each with distinct characteristics:
1. Open-Angle Glaucoma (Chronic Glaucoma):
This is the most common type, accounting for 70–90% of all cases. It develops gradually when fluid drains too slowly from the eye, increasing intraocular pressure. Because it’s painless and symptom-free in the early stages, regular eye exams are vital for detection.
2. Angle-Closure Glaucoma (Acute Glaucoma):
This form occurs when the drainage angle of the eye becomes blocked, leading to a sudden rise in pressure. It can cause severe eye pain, headache, blurred vision, nausea, halos around lights, and even vomiting. Angle-closure glaucoma is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment to prevent vision loss.
Detecting Glaucoma Early
Because glaucoma often progresses silently, early detection is the best defense. Comprehensive eye exams allow optometrists to detect changes before permanent vision loss occurs.
During a glaucoma screening, your eye doctor may perform:
- Tonometry: Measures intraocular pressure (IOP).
- Ophthalmoscopy: Examines the optic nerve for damage.
- Visual field testing: Checks for peripheral vision loss.
- OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography): Creates detailed images of the optic nerve to identify early damage.
Relying solely on the “air puff” test is not enough. A full glaucoma evaluation ensures accurate results and early intervention.
Treatment and Management of Glaucoma
Although glaucoma-related vision loss cannot be reversed, treatment can effectively slow or stop its progression.
Common treatment options include:
- Prescription eye drops to reduce intraocular pressure.
- Oral medications that help regulate fluid production in the eye.
- Laser therapy or surgery to improve fluid drainage and prevent further optic nerve damage.
Patients diagnosed with glaucoma should use their prescribed eye drops consistently—even if their vision feels normal. Skipping treatment can cause pressure spikes that lead to irreversible vision loss.
Raising Awareness During National Glaucoma Awareness Month
National Glaucoma Awareness Month and National Blindness Awareness Month serve as reminders that regular eye exams are essential for preserving sight. Many people at risk for glaucoma are unaware they have it until the late stages.
If you have any of the risk factors mentioned—or if it’s been more than a year since your last exam—schedule an appointment with your eye care professional. Early diagnosis is key to saving vision.
Protect Your Vision with Comprehensive Eye Care
At Eyeson Group, we are dedicated to promoting glaucoma awareness and helping patients preserve their vision through early detection, education, and advanced care. Whether you’re in Worcester, Randolph, Lincoln, or Cranston, our team provides personalized evaluations and cutting-edge diagnostic technology to identify and manage glaucoma before it affects your vision.
Take control of your eye health this year—schedule your comprehensive eye exam today and join us in spreading awareness about glaucoma, the silent thief of sight.