Eye doctors are dedicated to protecting their patients’ eyesight, so they observe January as Glaucoma Awareness Month. Glaucoma is a major cause of vision loss and blindness, according to the National Eye Institute (NEI). The NEI and the National Eye Health Education Program (NEHEP) work with eye care specialists to inform the public about this serious health risk and how to address it.

What Eye Doctors Want You to Know About Glaucoma

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases resulting in damage to the optic nerve when increased pressure results from a fluid buildup inside the eye. Depending on the individual, differing amounts of pressure cause damage. The disease affects side vision, also known as peripheral vision. Patients affected by the disease experience a narrowing of their field of vision in either or both eyes. Eye care specialists know that without treatment, total vision loss can occur.

Who Might Develop Glaucoma?

About 3 million people aged 40 and older have the disease, and about 50% of them are not aware of it. African Americans over 40 years old and individuals with a family history of the disease have a higher risk of developing glaucoma.

What are the Symptoms of Glaucoma?

In its early stages, glaucoma has no symptoms, which means people might not realize they have it. Individuals with the disease notice vision loss when it advances to its later stages. When eye doctors detect the disease early, they can control it and prevent serious loss of vision. Once glaucoma vision loss occurs, it cannot be restored.

How Do Eye Doctors Help With Treatments?

A comprehensive dilated eye exam enables eye doctors to diagnose the disease, and then treat it. Medication and surgery help reduce the potential for severe vision loss. With your new knowledge about why glaucoma testing is crucial to protecting your sight, it’s wise to schedule an appointment with your eye doctor. 

Good eyesight is a precious gift, and Jamison Eye Care in Monroe County, NY, helps patients protect it. A board-certified ophthalmologist, Dr. Michele Jamison, M.D. has more than 20 years of practice, specializing in medical and surgical eye care, including glaucoma testing and treatment. Visit the practice’s website for more information about services and call (585) 225-5883 to schedule an appointment.