Why Does Glaucoma Need An Awareness Month?

Glaucoma is a prevalent eye disease that often has no noticeable symptoms until significant damage has occurred to vision. That’s why it’s referred to as the “silent thief of sight.” By raising awareness, more people are likely to come in for regular eye exams, where glaucoma can be detected early. The sooner it is treated, the better chances of preserving vision.

Understanding Glaucoma:
Glaucoma is a group of eye disorders that can damage the optic nerve, leading to permanent vision loss or even blindness if left untreated. How many of the following important facts did you know about Glaucoma?

1. Glaucoma affects over 3 million Americans and is one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide.
2. Anyone can develop glaucoma, but certain factors increase your risk, such as age, family history, ethnicity, and certain medical conditions like diabetes.
3. The two main types of glaucoma are open-angle glaucoma and angle-closure glaucoma. Both can cause vision loss but differ in their underlying causes and symptoms.
4. Glaucoma often progresses silently, making routine eye exams crucial for early detection. Detecting glaucoma early allows for more effective management and preservation of vision.
5. While there is no cure for glaucoma, treatments such as medication, laser therapy, or surgery can help slow down the progression and prevent further vision loss.

Dispelling Misconceptions:
There are several myths and misconceptions surrounding glaucoma that can affect awareness and early intervention:

Myth: Glaucoma only affects older people.
Truth: While the risk increases with age, glaucoma can affect anyone, including young adults.

Myth: Having normal eyesight means you are free from glaucoma.
Truth: Glaucoma often has no early symptoms, and vision loss can occur gradually without notice. Regular eye exams are essential to detect glaucoma at its early stages.

Myth: There’s no way to save your vision if you have glaucoma.
Truth: Early detection and intervention can prevent or slow down the progression of glaucoma, protecting remaining vision.

Taking Action: Have Your Annual Eye Exam!
Regular eye exams, early detection, and proactive management are the best ways to preserve vision and fight the silent thief. Here are two ways you can help:

1. Schedule your comprehensive eye exam: If you haven’t had an eye exam in the past year, now is the perfect time to make an appointment at one of the Key-Whitman Eye Center locations. Our doctors perform comprehensive eye exams that can detect glaucoma at an early stage so you have the advantage of the most effective treatment options.
2. Advocate for awareness: Spread the word among your family, friends, and community about the importance of regular eye exams and the risk of glaucoma. Sharing this knowledge may help save someone’s sight!

Together, let’s shine a light on glaucoma to help preserve vison. For more information about glaucoma or to schedule an appointment, contact our experts at Key-Whitman Eye Center: (214) 220-3937.