Glaucoma Awareness Month: Protecting Your Vision Starts With Early Care

Glaucoma Awareness Month is an important reminder that some of the most serious eye conditions develop quietly. Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of preventable vision loss in the United States, yet many people do not realize they have it until permanent damage has already occurred.

At Allied Vision, our optometrists help patients across Central New Jersey protect their eyesight through early detection, careful monitoring, and ongoing care. Understanding glaucoma and knowing your risk can make a lasting difference for your vision and quality of life.

What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, which carries visual information from the eye to the brain. In many cases, this damage is related to increased pressure inside the eye, known as intraocular pressure.

The challenge with glaucoma is that it often causes no noticeable symptoms in its early stages. Vision loss usually begins with peripheral or side vision, making changes easy to miss during daily activities. Once vision is lost, it cannot be restored, which is why early diagnosis is so important.

Why Glaucoma Is Called the “Sneak Thief of Sight”

Most people with the most common form of glaucoma, primary open-angle glaucoma, experience no pain or warning signs at first. Vision can remain clear while damage slowly progresses in the background.

By the time symptoms become noticeable, such as tunnel vision or difficulty seeing in low light, significant and irreversible damage may already be present. Regular eye exams are the only reliable way to detect glaucoma early.

Who Is at Higher Risk for Glaucoma?

While anyone can develop glaucoma, certain risk factors increase the likelihood. You may be at higher risk if you:

• Are over the age of 60

• Have a family history of glaucoma

• Are African American over age 40

• Are of Hispanic, Latino, or Asian descent

• Have diabetes or high blood pressure

• Have high levels of nearsightedness

• Use steroid medications long term

• Have had a serious eye injury

Patients with one or more of these risk factors should prioritize regular glaucoma screenings as part of their comprehensive eye exams.

Types of Glaucoma Explained

Understanding the different types of glaucoma helps explain why testing and treatment vary from patient to patient.

Open-Angle Glaucoma

This is the most common type. It progresses slowly and without symptoms in the early stages. Peripheral vision loss occurs first.

Angle-Closure Glaucoma

This form can develop suddenly and causes symptoms such as eye pain, blurred vision, halos around lights, headaches, and nausea. It is a medical emergency that requires immediate care.

Normal-Tension Glaucoma

Damage occurs even though eye pressure remains within normal ranges. Blood flow to the optic nerve may play a role.

Congenital Glaucoma

A rare form present at birth, often identified by excessive tearing, light sensitivity, or cloudy eyes in infants.

Secondary Glaucoma

This develops due to another condition, such as eye injury, inflammation, surgery, diabetes, or high blood pressure.

How Glaucoma Is Detected During an Eye Exam

During a comprehensive eye exam at Allied Vision in Lawrenceville, glaucoma testing includes more than a single pressure check. Our optometrists evaluate several important factors, including:

• Measurement of intraocular pressure

• Examination of the optic nerve

• Visual field testing to assess peripheral vision

• Corneal thickness measurement

• Advanced imaging such as OCT scans

Because eye pressure can fluctuate and glaucoma can exist even with normal pressure, these tests work together to provide a clear picture of eye health.

Patients can learn more about this process on our Glaucoma Testing & Treatment and Comprehensive Eye Exam pages.

How Glaucoma Is Treated

Although glaucoma cannot be cured, early treatment can slow or stop progression and preserve remaining vision.

Treatment plans may include:

• Prescription eye drops to lower eye pressure

• Oral medications in certain cases

• Laser procedures to improve fluid drainage

• Surgical options for advanced cases

Consistency is critical. Following the recommended treatment plan and attending regular follow-up visits plays a major role in protecting long-term vision.

Why Glaucoma Awareness Month Matters

Many patients in New Jersey lead busy lives and may delay routine eye care if their vision feels “fine.” Glaucoma Awareness Month serves as a reminder that eye health is about more than clarity. It is about prevention, early action, and lifelong vision protection.

At Allied Vision, we have cared for families in the Lawrenceville communities for decades. We take the time to listen, explain results clearly, and help patients feel confident about their eye health decisions.

When Should You Schedule a Glaucoma Screening?

Adults over 40 should have regular eye exams, even without symptoms. Those with higher risk factors may need more frequent monitoring.

If it has been more than a year since your last eye exam, or if glaucoma runs in your family, now is the right time to schedule an appointment.

Protect Your Vision With Early Glaucoma Care

Glaucoma does not have to lead to vision loss. With early detection, proper treatment, and ongoing care, many patients maintain functional vision for life.

This Glaucoma Awareness Month, take a proactive step for your eyesight. Schedule a comprehensive eye exam at Allied Vision and give your vision the careful attention it deserves.