Glaucoma: The Silent Thief of Sight

Did you know that glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness for people over 60? But it doesn’t just affect older adults—glaucoma can strike at any age. Early detection is critical, which is why scheduling yearly visits with your optometrist is so important.

What Is Glaucoma?

Often called “The Silent Thief of Sight,” glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve. This damage is usually caused by abnormally high pressure in the eye. The nickname comes from the fact that glaucoma often progresses without noticeable symptoms until significant vision loss occurs.

How Do I Know If I Have Glaucoma?

“Unfortunately, most patients don’t experience symptoms until the disease has progressed significantly,” says Dr. Jordan Earl, Optometrist. “Visual loss or tunnel vision are often signs of advanced glaucoma. This is why annual eye exams are so important—they help us catch the disease early!”

Who Is at Risk for Glaucoma?

Several factors can increase your risk of developing glaucoma. According to Dr. Earl, these include:

  • Age (60 and older)
  • Family history of glaucoma
  • Diabetes
  • Severe nearsightedness
  • Eye injuries
  • Ethnic background (Latinos, African-Americans, and Asian-Americans are at higher risk)

Preventing Glaucoma

While there’s no cure for glaucoma, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk and detect it early:

  1. Schedule Routine Dilated Eye Exams
    Regular comprehensive eye exams are one of the best ways to detect glaucoma early. Dr. Earl emphasizes that early detection and treatment can prevent significant vision loss.
  2. Understand Your Family History
    If you have a family history of glaucoma, let your optometrist know. A genetic predisposition increases your risk, so regular monitoring is essential.
  3. Wear Eye Protection
    Eye injuries can increase your risk of glaucoma. Whether you’re using power tools or playing high-speed sports like tennis or baseball, always wear protective eyewear.
  4. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
    A balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking can support overall eye health and reduce your risk of glaucoma.

What to Expect During an Eye Exam

“During a regular eye exam, we’ll check the pressure inside your eye using an intraocular pressure test,” explains Dr. Earl. “We’ll also perform a retinal exam to assess the optic nerve for any signs of damage.”

If glaucoma is suspected, additional tests may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis and determine the best course of treatment.

Take Action Today

Don’t let glaucoma steal your sight. Schedule your next eye care appointment with us today by clicking the button above or call/text 509.488.5256.