20 Things Everyone Should Know About Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a complex eye condition that affects millions worldwide and is a leading cause of irreversible vision loss. Yet, many don’t realize they have it until significant damage has occurred. Here are 20 important facts to help you understand glaucoma and protect your vision:

1. Glaucoma is Often Undiagnosed

At least half of those with glaucoma are unaware they have it. In some developing countries, up to 90% of cases go undetected.

2. It’s the Second Leading Cause of Blindness in The US

Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness in developed countries and the leading cause of irreversible blindness globally.

3. African Americans Are at Higher Risk

Glaucoma-related blindness is 6 to 8 times more common among African Americans than Caucasians.

4. Hispanic Populations Also Have Increased Risk

Studies show a 5% prevalence of open-angle glaucoma in Hispanic communities, similar to African Americans, and double the national average.

5. Diabetes Doubles Your Risk

People with diabetes are twice as likely to develop glaucoma compared to those without diabetes.

6. Millions Affected and Growing

Over 2.7 million Americans over 40 have glaucoma. This number is expected to double by 2050 due to aging populations.

7. Women Slightly More Affected

In the U.S., approximately 2.29 million women and 1.94 million men live with glaucoma.

8. It’s a Group of Eye Diseases

Glaucoma refers to several diseases damaging the optic nerve, with open-angle glaucoma being the most common type.

9. The Cause is Not Fully Understood

Despite research, the exact causes of glaucoma remain unclear, but it involves damage to the optic nerve.

10. High Eye Pressure is an Important Indicator – But Not the Only One

Elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) is a major risk factor, but glaucoma can occur even with normal or low eye pressure.

11. Glaucoma is Often Called the “Sneak Thief of Sight”

It usually has no symptoms in early stages, so vision loss often occurs before diagnosis.

12. Risk Increases with Age

People over age 60 are at much higher risk for glaucoma, making regular eye exams critical as you age.

13. Family History Matters

Having a close relative with glaucoma significantly raises your own risk.

14. High Myopia (Severe Nearsightedness) is a Risk Factor

People with high myopia are more susceptible to developing glaucoma.

15. Other Health Factors Contribute

High blood pressure, previous eye injuries, and prolonged use of corticosteroid medications can increase glaucoma risk.

16. Early Detection Can Save Vision

Regular comprehensive eye exams can catch glaucoma before vision loss begins.

17. Glaucoma Is Not Curable, But It Is Treatable

While damage cannot be reversed, treatment is highly effective at preventing new vision loss.

18. Treatments Include Eye Drops, Laser, and Surgery

Doctors tailor treatment plans based on your type and severity of glaucoma, often starting with medicated eye drops.

19. The First Symptoms Are Often Poor Contrast or Difficulties in Low Light Situations

Glaucoma typically affects contrast sensitivity and the ability to see in dimly lit situations. After that side vision or peripheral vision may be impacted, and this symptom is something that many patients don’t notice until advanced stages.

20. You Can Live Well With Glaucoma

With ongoing care and monitoring, many people with glaucoma maintain good vision and a full life.

Protect Your Sight with Expert Glaucoma Care and Comprehensive Eye Exams in Hamilton Township

Your eyes deserve care that’s local, expert, and compassionate. At Gregory Cox, MD, we take the time to explain your eye health fully, guiding you through glaucoma management or routine exams with personalized attention that’s rare to find. Conveniently located across from Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in Hamilton Township, we proudly serve patients from Trenton, Lawrence, Robbinsville, and beyond.