Are you at risk for glaucoma? It’s one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide, affecting nearly 3 million people in the United States alone. Yet half of those with the disease don’t even know they have it, according to the Glaucoma Research Foundation. Because vision loss from glaucoma often happens gradually and without warning, it’s frequently referred to as the “silent thief of sight.”
What Is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is not just one eye disease—it’s a group of diseases that damage the optic nerve, essential for vision. Most types are caused by increased intraocular pressure (IOP), often due to fluid buildup in the eye. If untreated, this pressure can permanently damage the optic nerve and lead to vision loss.
The two most common types are:
Open-Angle Glaucoma
This is the most common form of glaucoma in the United States. It develops slowly, often without noticeable symptoms in the early stages. Over time, peripheral vision begins to deteriorate—often without pain—until tunnel vision or total blindness may result if left untreated.
Angle-Closure Glaucoma
This type is less common but more urgent. It occurs when the drainage angle in the eye suddenly becomes blocked. This causes a rapid buildup of pressure and can result in severe pain, nausea, blurred vision, and halos around lights. It is a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment to prevent permanent vision loss.
Who Is Most at Risk?
The American Academy of Ophthalmology and Prevent Blindness list several risk factors that increase your likelihood of developing glaucoma:
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Age: Risk increases significantly after age 60 (or after 40 for African Americans).
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Race/Ethnicity:
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African Americans are up to six times more likely to develop glaucoma.
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Asians are more prone to angle-closure glaucoma.
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People of Japanese descent may be more likely to develop normal-tension glaucoma.
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Family History: Having a close relative with glaucoma increases your risk four to nine times.
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Medical Conditions: Diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease have all been linked to increased risk.
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Eye Anatomy & Conditions: Extremely nearsighted or farsighted individuals, or those with previous eye injuries, thin corneas, or chronic eye inflammation, may also be at higher risk.
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Prolonged Use of Corticosteroids: Long-term steroid use (especially eye drops or oral medications) can increase intraocular pressure in some individuals.
How Is Glaucoma Diagnosed?
Glaucoma is diagnosed through a comprehensive eye exam, not just a simple vision screening. Tests may include:
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Tonometry – measures the pressure inside your eye.
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Ophthalmoscopy – examines the optic nerve for damage.
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Visual Field Testing – checks for peripheral vision loss.
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Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) – a noninvasive scan to assess the optic nerve and retinal nerve fiber layer.
Because early-stage glaucoma typically has no symptoms, regular screenings are critical, especially if you have risk factors.
Can Glaucoma Be Prevented?
There’s currently no way to prevent glaucoma entirely, but early detection and management can help preserve your vision. The Glaucoma Research Foundation recommends:
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Getting regular eye exams (every 1–2 years after age 40, or earlier if you have risk factors).
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Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can reduce systemic risks such as high blood pressure or diabetes.
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Wearing eye protection when playing sports or working with tools that may cause injury.
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Managing underlying health conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure with your primary care provider.
What Are the Treatment Options?
Although vision lost to glaucoma cannot be restored, treatment can slow or stop its progression:
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Prescription Eye Drops – the most common first line of treatment to reduce eye pressure.
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Laser Therapy – procedures like Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) help improve fluid drainage in the eye.
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Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) – uses small implants or devices to reduce IOP with fewer complications than traditional surgeries.
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Traditional Surgeries – including trabeculectomy or glaucoma drainage implants for advanced or resistant cases.
Consistency is key. If you’re diagnosed with glaucoma, attending regular follow-ups, taking medications as prescribed, and monitoring your eye health closely are essential.
Protect Your Vision from the Risks of Glaucoma Today
Glaucoma can steal your sight without warning. The best defense is a good offense: know your risks, get regular eye exams, and talk with your optometrist or ophthalmologist about how to protect your long-term vision.
To schedule a comprehensive eye exam or learn more about glaucoma diagnosis and treatment, call us at (915) 267-2020.