Why Glaucoma Awareness Month Matters

Glaucoma is often called the “Silent Thief of Sight” for a good reason. This progressive eye condition usually presents no noticeable symptoms in its early stages, making it difficult to detect without regular eye exams. For this reason, January’s Glaucoma Awareness Month plays a crucial role in educating individuals about the importance of early detection and proactive care. At Kovach Eye Institute, we’re committed to spreading awareness about this sight-threatening condition and encouraging patients to prioritize their eye health.

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is an eye disease that damages the optic nerve, often due to elevated x Trusted Source Glaucoma Johns Hopkins Medicine Go to Source intraocular pressure (IOP) . The optic nerve transmits visual information from the eye to the brain, and any damage can lead to irreversible vision loss.

There are several types of glaucoma, with primary open-angle glaucoma being the most x Trusted Source Types of Glaucoma National Eye Institute Go to Source common. This form develops gradually and without pain, making regular eye exams essential for early detection.

Other types of glaucoma include:

• Angle-closure glaucoma: A sudden blockage of drainage canals that can result in a rapid increase in eye pressure.
• Normal-tension glaucoma: Damage to the optic nerve despite normal eye pressure levels.
• Secondary glaucoma: Caused by another medical condition, such as diabetes or eye injury.

<2>Why Early Detection is Essential

One of the biggest challenges with glaucoma is that many patients don’t realize they have it until significant vision loss has already occurred. Although glaucoma can develop at any age, it is more frequently diagnosed in older individuals. For those over 60, it remains a leading cause of x Trusted Source Glaucoma Mayo Clinc Go to Source blindness. By the time noticeable symptoms appear, some portion of vision may be lost, and the disease is typically x Trusted Source Preventing Vision Loss From Glaucoma Weill Cornell Medicine Go to Source advanced. Unfortunately, once vision is lost, it cannot be restored.

Comprehensive eye exams are vital in identifying glaucoma early. During an exam, our eye specialists at Kovach Eye Institute will:

• Measure your intraocular pressure (IOP)
• Examine your optic nerve for signs of damage
• Assess your peripheral vision, as glaucoma often affects side vision first

These diagnostic tests are critical for detecting glaucoma before it impacts your quality of life.

Who is at Risk for Glaucoma?

While anyone can develop glaucoma, certain factors can increase your x Trusted Source Glaucoma Risks Glaucoma Research Foundation Go to Source risk:

• Age 40 and older
• Family history of glaucoma
• Elevated intraocular pressure
• Ethnic background (African Americans, Hispanics, and Asians are at higher risk)
• Pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease
• Prolonged use of corticosteroids
• History of eye injuries

Regular eye exams are essential for preserving your vision if you have one or more of these risk factors.

Managing Glaucoma

Although glaucoma has no cure, early detection and proper management can help slow its progression and protect your remaining vision. Treatment options may include:

• Prescription eye drops to lower eye pressure
• Laser therapy to improve fluid drainage
• Surgical procedures to create new drainage pathways

Our eye care professionals at Kovach Eye Institute will work closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan based on the severity of your condition.

How You Can Protect Your Vision

Here are some steps you can take to reduce your risk of vision loss from glaucoma:

1. Schedule Regular Eye Exams

Routine eye exams are the most effective way to detect glaucoma early. Our specialists recommend that adults over 40 schedule comprehensive exams at least once every two years or more frequently if they have risk factors.

2. Know Your Family History

Glaucoma tends to run in families. If you have a relative with glaucoma, your chances of developing it are significantly higher. Share this information with your eye doctor so they can monitor your eye health more closely.

3. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

Eating a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, maintaining a healthy weight, and engaging in regular exercise can contribute to overall x Trusted Source Glaucoma Diagnosis & Treatment Mayo Clinc Go to Source eye health. Consuming foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish and leafy greens, may also help lower eye pressure.

4. Take Medications as Prescribed

If you have been diagnosed with glaucoma, it’s crucial to follow your prescribed treatment plan. Using eye drops consistently and correctly can help prevent further damage to your optic nerve.

Make Glaucoma Awareness a Priority

At Kovach Eye Institute, we’re dedicated to helping our patients protect their vision and understand the risks associated with glaucoma. This January, take the time to schedule an eye exam for yourself or a loved one. Awareness and early intervention can make a significant difference in preserving sight and maintaining a high quality of life.

Don’t let the glaucoma go undetected. Contact us today to schedule your comprehensive eye exam and take the first step toward safeguarding your vision for years to come.