Glaucoma Awareness Month: Protect Your Vision, Spread the Word

Glaucoma Awareness Month is a time to shine a spotlight on one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide. Often called the "silent thief of sight," glaucoma develops without warning and can lead to irreversible vision loss. Raising awareness and understanding of glaucoma is essential for early detection and prevention.

This month, our Lathrup Village eye care team at Sobel Eyecare would like to take a closer look at glaucoma, who’s at risk, and how you can protect your vision and encourage others to do the same.

What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma refers to a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, which is critical for transmitting visual information to the brain. In most cases, this damage is caused by elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) within the eye. Over time, untreated glaucoma can result in peripheral vision loss and, eventually, complete blindness.

There are two primary types of glaucoma:

• Open-Angle Glaucoma: The most common form, it develops gradually and often without noticeable symptoms in the early stages.
• Angle-Closure Glaucoma: A less common but more severe type, it can cause sudden symptoms like eye pain, nausea, and blurred vision, requiring immediate medical attention.

Who Is at Risk for Glaucoma?

While glaucoma can affect anyone, certain individuals are at higher risk, including:

• Those Over 40: Aging increases the likelihood of developing glaucoma.
• People with a Family History: Genetics play a significant role in glaucoma risk.
• Individuals with Diabetes or High Blood Pressure: These conditions can contribute to increased eye pressure and optic nerve damage.
• African American, Hispanic, or Asian Descent: Certain ethnic groups are more prone to developing glaucoma.

Knowing your risk factors is the first step toward protecting your vision.

The Importance of Early Glacuoma Detection

Glaucoma often progresses without symptoms, which is why early detection is critical. Regular, comprehensive eye exams are the only way to detect glaucoma in its early stages. During an exam, your eye doctor can:

• Measure your intraocular pressure.
• Assess the health of your optic nerve.
• Perform visual field tests to check for peripheral vision loss.

When glaucoma is caught early, treatment can help manage the disease and prevent significant vision loss.

Protecting Your Vision

Taking proactive steps to protect your eye health is essential. Here’s how you can reduce your risk of glaucoma:

1. Get Regular Eye Exams: Schedule comprehensive exams every 1-2 years, especially if you’re over 40 or have risk factors.
2. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Manage your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels through a balanced diet and regular exercise.
3. Know Your Family History: If glaucoma runs in your family, share this information with your eye doctor.
4. Spread Awareness: Educate your friends and family about glaucoma and encourage them to prioritize their eye health.

How We Can Help Preserve Your Eye Health and Vision

Our eye care team is dedicated to detecting and managing glaucoma with advanced diagnostic tools and personalized treatment plans. Whether it’s through routine screenings or tailored care, we’re here to help you safeguard your vision.

This Glaucoma Awareness Month, take action to protect your vision and encourage others to do the same. Schedule your comprehensive eye exam today to ensure your eyes are healthy and your vision is secure. Together, we can fight the silent threat of glaucoma and raise awareness in our communities.