January is Glaucoma Awareness Month

Glaucoma is often called “the silent thief of sight” — and for good reason. It typically develops slowly and without noticeable symptoms, quietly causing irreversible vision loss before many people realize anything is wrong.

In fact, glaucoma is one of the leading causes of vision loss and blindness in the United States. It’s estimated that up to 40% of vision can be lost before a person notices any changes, making early detection critical.

What is Glaucoma:
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, which is essential for clear vision. This damage is often, but not always, associated with increased eye pressure. Once vision is lost due to glaucoma, it cannot be restored, but with early detection and proper management, progression can often be slowed or controlled.

Why Regular Eye Exams Matter:
Because glaucoma often has no early warning signs, routine comprehensive eye exams are the best defense. During an eye exam, your optometrist can evaluate eye pressure, examine the optic nerve, assess how your eyes work together, and look for subtle changes that may indicate glaucoma or other eye diseases.

Without regular eye exams, glaucoma can progress unnoticed until significant vision loss has already occurred.

Who Is at Risk?
While anyone can develop glaucoma, certain factors may increase risk, including:

• A family history of glaucoma
• Age 60 and older
• Diabetes or other systemic health conditions
• Long-term steroid use

Even if you feel your vision is “fine,” glaucoma can still be present.

Protecting Your Vision
There is currently no cure for glaucoma, but early diagnosis allows for treatment options that can help preserve remaining vision. This is why annual eye exams are so important — not just for seeing clearly, but for protecting your long-term eye health.
This January, during Glaucoma Awareness Month, we encourage you to take a proactive step for your vision. If it’s been a while since your last eye exam, now is the perfect time to schedule one.

Your vision is precious — don’t let glaucoma steal it silently.