As the new year begins, most people think about resolutions and how to make better choices for the coming year. Starting the year off right should include making healthy choices. In all your planning, think about your eye health. 

You need to learn about diseases such as glaucoma. Learning about this dangerous vision thief will help you protect your eyesight. January is Glaucoma Awareness Month, and there are things you need to know. 

Glaucoma Is Very Prevalent

One thing that you need to know is that glaucoma affects more than three million people. Unfortunately, most people who have the condition are not aware of it. If not detected early and controlled, glaucoma leads to vision loss. 

The loss of vision happens gradually, and most people do not realize it until they have lost almost 40 percent of their vision. Vision loss from glaucoma cannot be reversed. Regular eye exams are vital for the prevention of this silent thief of vision. Early detection of the condition is the only way to protect the patient’s vision. 

Early Diagnosis and Treatment

Glaucoma occurs due to damage to the optic nerve. This nerve is responsible for transmitting signals between the eyes and the brain. While glaucoma is most common among middle-aged and elderly individuals, it can affect anyone. 

The earlier a patient visits an ophthalmologist, the sooner they can limit the damage from the condition. The disease does not have symptoms during the early stages. Glaucoma screening will help determine if the patient has signs of the disease. The screening will even determine the type of glaucoma that the patient has.

Regular Eye Examinations

The importance of regular eye exams cannot be overemphasized. The fact is that the exams are the only way to determine an individual’s sight and eye health. An eye specialist can evaluate the patient’s eyes, helping long-term vision preservation. 

Several tests can determine whether a patient has glaucoma. Regular glaucoma screening is especially vital for those who have a family member with the condition. The doctor can provide information on how to manage or reduce glaucoma progression.

Comprehensive Eye Testing

Screening for glaucoma will involve several tests. The eye doctor will carry out tests to check the patient’s peripheral vision and to measure the eye pressure. A dilated eye exam will help determine the condition of the optic nerve. 

Retinal cell evaluation helps determine where glaucoma begins. Proper diagnosis is vital to confirm the presence of the disease. After confirming the diagnosis, the patient will begin treatment immediately. Treatment can help halt or slow down vision loss. 

Glaucoma Awareness

There are some things that you can do to raise awareness about glaucoma. Educating your elderly family members and friends can help protect their sight. The disease is genetic, so it is necessary to learn your family history. 

Find out your risk factors and talk to your relatives about glaucoma. It is also vital to protect your eyesight through simple lifestyle changes. Watch what you eat, exercise regularly, and protect your eyes from the sun.

For more on glaucoma awareness and what you need to know, visit Alpha Eye Group at any of our offices in Philadelphia, Wyomissing, Bethlehem Township, or Doylestown, Pennsylvania. You can call (215) 698-7760, (610) 376-7272, (610) 866-1000, (215) 878-7181, or (215) 230-4060 today to schedule an appointment.