January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month

What IS glaucoma? Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that gradually steal sight without warning. It is often called “the sneak thief of sight” since there are no symptoms and once vision is lost, it’s permanent. Vision loss is caused by damage to the optic nerve. This nerve acts like an electric cable with over a million wires. It is responsible for carrying images from the eye to the brain. In the most common form, there are virtually no symptoms. Vision loss begins with peripheral or side vision, so if you have glaucoma, you may not notice anything until significant vision is lost. As much as 40% of vision can be lost without a person noticing.

Glaucoma is the leading cause of preventable blindness. It is the second leading cause of blindness in the world, according to the World Health Organization. Although the most common forms primarily affect the middle-aged and the elderly, glaucoma can affect people of all ages. Those at higher risk include people of African, Asian, and Hispanic descent. Among African American and Latino populations, glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness, and it is more prevalent. Glaucoma is 6 to 8 times more common in African Americans than Caucasians. Other high-risk groups include: people over 60, family members of those already diagnosed, diabetics, and people who are severely nearsighted.

Over 2.2 million Americans, and over 60 million people worldwide, have glaucoma. Experts estimate that half of them don’t know they have it. Combined with our aging population, we can see an epidemic of blindness looming if we don’t raise awareness about the importance of regular eye examinations to preserve vision. Regular eye exams are especially important for those at higher risk for glaucoma, and may help to prevent unnecessary vision loss.

Call (323) 656-9550 to schedule your comprehensive eye examination with one of our experienced Los Angeles optometrists today!