Glaucoma is often referred to as the “silent thief of sight” because it damages the optic nerve, usually from elevated eye pressure, often without noticeable early warning signs. By the time you notice vision changes, like peripheral loss (tunnel vision), irreversible nerve damage may have occurred.
Key risk factors include age over 60, family history, African American, Hispanic, or Asian heritage, high eye pressure, diabetes, severe nearsightedness, long-term steroid use, some systemic inflammation diseases, or eye injuries.
Prevention starts with awareness: Most types (like primary open-angle) have no early symptoms, so regular comprehensive eye exams with eye pressure checks, and optic nerve evaluation are important. Start screenings in your 40s, or earlier if high-risk.
Treatments for glaucoma can include prescription eye drops, laser therapy, or surgeries that can lower pressure, and halt progression when caught early. It is better to prevent and treat, than to hope and delay.
In Iowa, where many of us have family histories or other risks, don’t take chances. Book a glaucoma screening at Blink Vision today—early detection truly preserves your independence and quality of life.