One of the best things you can do for your health is to take good care of your eyes. January is Glaucoma Awareness Month, and it is an opportune time to find out more about this eye disease. Glaucoma is a condition that affects the optic nerve. The nerve acts as a vital link between the eyes and the brain. 

Glaucoma does not have symptoms. Experts estimate that an individual can lose up to 40 percent of their vision without noticing it. Over four million people worldwide have gone blind due to this condition. Here is what you need to know about glaucoma.

Types of Glaucoma

There are two main types: open-angle glaucoma and closed-angle glaucoma. The most common type is open-angle, usually caused by reduced outflow in the eyes. The eye drainage canals fail to work effectively, increasing eye pressure. This type has no symptoms and can lead to gradual yet permanent vision loss. 

Closed-angle glaucoma is less common. It results from an obstruction in the eye’s drainage system. This obstruction leads to a sudden increase in pressure. This type of glaucoma has some noticeable symptoms such as headaches, blurry vision, and eye redness. 

Glaucoma Causes Blindness

You should be aware that globally, glaucoma is the second-leading cause of blindness. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are about 60 million people with glaucoma worldwide. Experts believe that over three million people in the US have glaucoma, but only half of them are aware of it. Vision loss from glaucoma is irreversible. 

There Is No Cure for Glaucoma

There is currently no cure for glaucoma, making it impossible to restore the lost vision owing to the condition. It has no symptoms, so the only way to protect your vision is through routine eye examinations. 

To save your sight, you must begin treatment soon after detection. Every individual over the age of 40 should get regular eye exams. During the exams, the eye specialist can look for signs of optic nerve damage. Early detection and treatment can help save your vision. 

Anyone Can Get Glaucoma

The condition may be more common among the elderly, but it can affect anyone, even babies. Some babies are born with glaucoma. There are, however, individuals who have a higher risk of developing the condition. 

If someone in your family has glaucoma, you have a higher risk of developing the disease. Glaucoma is six to eight times more common among people of African descent. It is also more prevalent among those over 60 years old, those with severe myopia, and diabetics.

Glaucoma Awareness Is Vital

Glaucoma awareness and education are essential for everyone. Many people do not know that they have it, so education is vital. During Glaucoma Awareness Month, it is vital to spread awareness about this “sneaky thief of sight.” 

Talking to friends and family about the condition is necessary. It is crucial to get glaucoma screenings during this month. Spreading awareness about glaucoma can help save someone’s sight. 

For more on glaucoma month and what you need to know, visit Insight Eyecare at our office in Las Vegas, Nevada. You can call (702) 718-7163 today to schedule an appointment.