Vision health often goes overlooked until it’s too late, especially for silent conditions like glaucoma. With no noticeable symptoms in the early stages, glaucoma can damage vision without a person realizing anything is wrong.
What Glaucoma Is
Glaucoma isn’t just one eye problem but a group of diseases that damage the optic nerve, the vital connection that carries visual information from the eye to the brain. Over time, this damage can lead to permanent vision loss or blindness if not detected and treated early. Many people don’t notice vision changes in the early stages because glaucoma often affects peripheral or side vision first.
Why Glaucoma Is Called the Silent Thief of Sight
The most common type of glaucoma, open-angle glaucoma, develops slowly and painlessly. Most people will not experience symptoms until vision loss is significant. Because of this silent progression, approximately half of people with glaucoma are unaware they have the condition.
Who Is at Higher Risk
Glaucoma can affect anyone but is more common in certain groups. People over age 60, individuals with a family history of glaucoma, and those with medical conditions such as diabetes face a higher risk. Some ethnic groups, including Black individuals, also experience higher rates of glaucoma-related blindness.
Vision Loss Is Not Inevitable
Although glaucoma cannot be cured at this time, it can be managed. Early detection and consistent monitoring help slow or prevent further vision loss. Treatment options may include prescription eye drops, laser therapy, or surgery to lower pressure in the eye and protect the optic nerve.
The Role of Regular Eye Exams
Regular comprehensive dilated eye exams allow eye care professionals to check for signs of glaucoma and other eye conditions before noticeable vision loss occurs. Eye exams are particularly important for those in high-risk groups.
At Homewatch CareGivers of Idaho we support our clients and families by sharing helpful resources that encourage proactive health and wellness. If you haven’t had a comprehensive eye exam recently or have questions about your vision health, talk with your eye care provider about glaucoma screening today.
Homewatch Websites:
Boise: www.homewatchcaregivers.com/boise
Twin Falls: www.homewatchcaregivers.com/twinfalls
Nampa: www.homewatchcaregovers.com/nampa
Pocatello: www.homewatchcaregivers.com/pocatello
We serve the following cities:
Boise, Meridian, Eagle, Star, Nampa, Caldwell, Kuna, Mountain Home, Middleton, Parma, Homedale, Twin Falls, Jerome, Buhl, Kimberly, Filer, Wendell, Gooding, Pocatello, Burley, Chubbuck, American Falls, and Blackfoot.