- Eye Care
- January 2026
January is Glaucoma Awareness Month, a time dedicated to educating the public about one of the leading causes of preventable vision loss. Glaucoma often develops silently, without noticeable symptoms in its early stages, which is why many people are unaware they have it until vision damage has already occurred. Learning what glaucoma is, who is at risk, and when to see an eye doctor can play a critical role in protecting your eyesight.
At Campus Eye Group, we believe that early detection and ongoing eye care are the best defenses against glaucoma-related vision loss.
What Is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, which is responsible for transmitting visual information from the eye to the brain. In many cases, this damage occurs when fluid inside the eye does not drain properly, leading to increased eye pressure. Over time, this pressure can harm the optic nerve and result in permanent vision loss.
The most common form is open-angle glaucoma, which develops slowly and often without early warning signs. Another type, angle closure glaucoma, occurs when drainage channels become suddenly blocked. This form can cause rapid symptoms and requires immediate medical attention. Regardless of the type, glaucoma-related vision loss cannot be reversed, making early diagnosis essential.
Symptoms to Watch For
One of the reasons glaucoma is so dangerous is that it may not cause symptoms at first. Many people experience no pain or noticeable changes in vision during the early stages. As the disease progresses, peripheral vision may begin to fade gradually. Over time, this can lead to tunnel vision and difficulty seeing objects to the side.
In more advanced or acute cases, symptoms may include blurred vision, halos around lights, eye redness, severe eye pain, headaches, nausea, or vomiting. Because these symptoms often appear after damage has already occurred, routine eye exams are the most reliable way to detect glaucoma early.
Who Is Most at Risk?
Glaucoma can affect people of all ages, but certain factors increase the likelihood of developing the condition. Age is a significant risk factor, especially for individuals over 60. A family history of glaucoma also raises risk, as the condition can be inherited.
Other factors that may contribute include higher-than-normal eye pressure, diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, previous eye injuries or surgeries, and long-term use of corticosteroid medications. Certain ethnic backgrounds, including African American, Hispanic, and Asian populations, are also at a higher risk for specific types of glaucoma.
If you fall into any of these categories, regular comprehensive eye exams at Campus Eye Group are especially important.
How Glaucoma Is Diagnosed
Glaucoma is diagnosed through a comprehensive eye exam that evaluates several aspects of eye health. Your eye doctor will measure eye pressure, examine the optic nerve, and assess peripheral vision. Additional testing may include measuring corneal thickness and evaluating how well fluid drains from the eye.
These tests allow your provider to detect glaucoma early, monitor changes over time, and determine the most appropriate treatment plan if glaucoma is present.
Can Glaucoma Be Prevented?
While glaucoma cannot always be prevented, early detection and proper management can significantly slow or stop vision loss. The most important preventive step is scheduling routine eye exams, even if your vision seems normal. Many patients with glaucoma have good central vision early on and may not realize anything is wrong.
Managing overall health also plays a role in protecting your eyes. Keeping blood pressure and blood sugar under control, following prescribed treatment plans, and using glaucoma medications exactly as directed can help preserve vision. Protecting your eyes from injury and sharing your family eye health history with your doctor are also important steps.
Treatment options vary based on the type and severity of glaucoma and may include prescription eye drops, oral medications, laser treatments, or surgical procedures.
When Should You See an Eye Doctor?
Adults over 40 should have regular comprehensive eye exams, typically every one to two years. If you have risk factors for glaucoma, your eye doctor may recommend more frequent visits. You should also schedule an exam if you notice changes in your peripheral vision or experience symptoms such as blurred vision or halos around lights.
Seek immediate medical care if you experience sudden eye pain, severe headaches, vision changes, or nausea, as these may indicate angle closure glaucoma, which requires urgent treatment.
Schedule an Eye Exam at Campus Eye Group
If you are concerned about glaucoma or are due for a comprehensive eye exam, the experienced team at Campus Eye Group is here to help.
Schedule your appointment online today to protect your vision and maintain long-term eye health.
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