Glaucoma Awareness Month: Understanding the Silent Thief of Sight
January is recognized as Glaucoma Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about one of the leading causes of blindness in the world today. This month serves as a reminder to take proactive steps in understanding, preventing, and managing glaucoma to preserve eye health and protect your vision.
Glaucoma Facts
- Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness in the world. It affects 80 million people worldwide, with more than 3 million living in the U.S.
- Individuals over the age of 60 are at an increased risk of Glaucoma.
- Diabetes, high blood pressure, and other conditions can increase the risks of Glaucoma.
- There are many different types of Glaucoma, the most common being Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG) and Angle-Closure Glaucoma.
- Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG): The most common form, often with no symptoms until significant damage has been done to the optic nerve. It progresses slowly, which is why regular eye exams are essential.
- Angle-Closure Glaucoma: A less common, more acute form that can cause a sudden rise in eye pressure. Symptoms may include severe eye pain, headaches, nausea, and blurred vision. It requires immediate medical attention.
Why Glaucoma Awareness Month Matters
Glaucoma Awareness Month is the perfect time to remind patients about the importance of regular eye exams. By spreading awareness and educating people about Glaucoma, we can help prevent unnecessary vision loss and improve the quality of life for millions of individuals worldwide .
If you or a loved one is at risk for Glaucoma, schedule an eye exam today. Early detection can make all the difference in protecting your sight for years to come. Don’t wait for symptoms to appear—make your eye health a priority this January and beyond.
What Can CHDC Do?
Here at CHDC, our vision department can perform comprehensive eye exams for all patients. Our dedicated team of providers evaluate the optic nerve and perform eye pressure tests to rule out Glaucoma and other possible eye conditions. Our team wants to highlight the importance of receiving preventative care before it’s too late, especially when it comes to Glaucoma. To learn more about what CHDC’s vision team can do for you, visit our Vision service page or click the button below.
Did You Know?
Glaucoma is often referred to as "the sneak thief of sight" since there are no symptoms and vision loss is permanent. Are you at risk? CHDC Optometrist, Dr. Gwinn offers expert insights:
“Glaucoma is the second-leading cause of blindness in the U.S. People with a family history of glaucoma, African Americans over the age of 40, and Hispanics over the age of 60 are at an increased risk. Glaucoma often develops slowly and without any symptoms, meaning many people are not aware they have the condition until they have significant vision loss. This is why annual comprehensive eye examinations are crucial in the assessment of risk factors and for early detection of the disease.”
To learn more about glaucoma please visit the Glaucoma Research Foundation.
Sources: https://glaucoma.org/articles/glaucoma-worldwide-a-growing-concern
For more information, visit our Vision page.
If you would like to schedule an appointment at CHDC, please call 610-326-9460 or visit our Become Our Patient page.