January is Glaucoma Awarenss Month

Glaucoma is a leading cause of vision loss and blindness in the United States.

Glaucoma has no early symptoms — that’s why half of the people with glaucoma don’t know they have it. The only way to find out if you have glaucoma is to get a comprehensive dilated eye exam. There’s no cure for glaucoma, but early treatment can often stop the damage and protect your vision.

Anyone can get glaucoma, but those at higher risk include:
• Everyone over age 60, especially Hispanics/Latinos
• African Americans over age 40
• People with a family history of glaucoma

Glaucoma at a Glance:

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that

• Has no symptoms at first, but can cause vision loss and blindness later

• Is diagnosed with a comprehensive dilated eye exam

• Can’t be prevented or cured — but can be treated with medicines, laser treatment or surgery

There’s no cure for glaucoma, but it can be treated. Starting treatment early is the best way to stop the damage and protect your vision. Talk to your eye doctor about your symptoms and treatment options or if you have any concerns.