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What is Glaucoma and Why Should I Check for It?

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Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide, yet it often goes undetected until significant vision loss has occurred. Known as the "silent thief of sight," glaucoma progresses without noticeable symptoms, making regular eye exams essential for protecting your vision.

Below, our New Boston eye care team at New Boston Vision Center discusses what glaucoma is, why it’s so dangerous, and what we can do to help.

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, the vital link between your eyes and brain. This damage is commonly caused by elevated intraocular pressure (pressure inside the eye). Over time, the pressure can harm the optic nerve, leading to vision loss.

Why is Glaucoma So Dangerous?

One of the most concerning aspects of glaucoma is its tendency to go unnoticed until damage has already been done to your eyes and vision. In its early stages, it typically doesn’t cause noticeable symptoms. Vision loss often starts with peripheral vision, which may not be immediately apparent. Left untreated, glaucoma can progress to significant vision impairment or even complete blindness.

Once vision is lost to glaucoma, it cannot be restored. Early detection is the only way to manage the condition effectively and prevent further damage.

Who Should Be Concerned About Glaucoma?

While anyone can develop glaucoma, some people are at a higher risk. Key risk factors include:

  • Age: People over 60 are more likely to develop glaucoma.
  • Family History: A family history of glaucoma increases your chances.
  • Ethnicity: African Americans, Hispanics, and Asians face a higher risk for specific forms of glaucoma.
  • Existing Conditions: Diabetes, high blood pressure, and other eye conditions like severe nearsightedness can increase risk.

Regular glaucoma screenings are always important, but if you fall into one or more of the above categories, they’re even more so.

What to Expect from an Eye Exam

During an exam, your eye doctor will measure your intraocular pressure, assess your optic nerve health, and conduct tests to evaluate your visual field. These simple tests can identify signs of glaucoma long before symptoms appear.

By catching glaucoma early, treatment options like prescription eye drops, laser therapy, or surgery can slow or stop its progression, protecting your vision for years to come.

Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Scheduling regular eye exams is a proactive step to safeguard your sight. If you’re in a high-risk group, talk to your eye doctor about how often you should be checked. Glaucoma is a lifelong condition, but with early detection and proper management, its impact can be minimized.