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Understanding Glaucoma: Protect Your Sight During Glaucoma Awareness Month

Writer's picture: Harrell HomesHarrell Homes

January marks Glaucoma Awareness Month, a time to focus on a condition that affects millions of people worldwide and is a leading cause of irreversible blindness. Understanding, detecting, and managing glaucoma early can protect your vision and enhance your quality of life.

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, often due to abnormally high pressure in the eye. This damage can lead to vision loss and, if untreated, blindness. While anyone can develop glaucoma, certain factors increase the risk, including:

  • Family history of glaucoma

  • Being over 60 years old

  • African American, Hispanic, or Asian heritage

  • Medical conditions such as diabetes or hypertension

  • Long-term steroid use

Symptoms to Watch For

Glaucoma is often called the "silent thief of sight" because it progresses slowly and without obvious symptoms in the early stages. However, some signs to look out for include:

  • Gradual loss of peripheral (side) vision

  • Eye pain or redness

  • Blurred vision

  • Seeing halos around lights

  • Severe headache with nausea and vomiting (in acute cases)


How to Protect Your Vision

  1. Get Regular Eye Exams: Early detection is key. Comprehensive eye exams, including tests for intraocular pressure and optic nerve health, are essential.

  2. Know Your Family History: If glaucoma runs in your family, share this information with your eye doctor.

  3. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Exercise, eat a balanced diet, and manage chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure to reduce risk.

  4. Follow Your Treatment Plan: If diagnosed, adhere to your prescribed medications and attend regular follow-ups to monitor progress.


How We Support Glaucoma Awareness

We are committed to spreading awareness about glaucoma and supporting individuals and families impacted by the condition. We encourage regular screenings and provide resources to educate our community about eye health.


Take Action This January

Glaucoma Awareness Month is the perfect time to prioritize your eye health. Schedule a comprehensive eye exam, learn more about glaucoma, and encourage your loved ones to do the same. Together, we can work to protect sight and improve lives.


Let’s spread the word and safeguard vision for all! 💙👁️


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