Glaucoma Risk: Who’s Vulnerable and Why It Matters

Did you know that as many as 50% of the people with glaucoma don’t know it? The disease has earned the nickname “The silent thief of sight” because it can begin damaging vision long before symptoms appear. At Galiani Ophthalmology Associates, a respected practice serving Central Bucks County since 1984, board-certified ophthalmologist Dr. David Galiani brings more than 25 years of experience to glaucoma diagnosis and management in our Reading and Doylestown offices.

Because January is Glaucoma Awareness Month, it’s the perfect time to explain glaucoma risk factors and why early detection matters.

Glaucoma Risk Factors

Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible vision loss, affecting more than 4 million Americans.

Regular monitoring is essential because early stages rarely cause symptoms. Once you lose vision to glaucoma, you can’t get it back, so protecting your eyesight is crucial. Knowing your risk factors and scheduling regular exams are an essential part of that.

• Age: Adults over 60 have a significantly higher risk of developing glaucoma, making regular exams increasingly important with age.

• Genetics: A family history of glaucoma greatly increases susceptibility. Patients with affected relatives benefit from earlier and more frequent screenings.

• Elevated eye pressure: High intraocular pressure often causes no symptoms but can damage the optic nerve over time, making routine exams and pressure monitoring essential.

• Medical and health conditions: Diabetes, high blood pressure, long-term steroid use, and previous eye injuries may raise glaucoma risk by affecting fluid drainage or optic nerve health.

• Ocular anatomy: Thinner corneas, narrow drainage angles, and certain optic nerve shapes can increase vulnerability. These features can only be identified during a comprehensive eye exam.

Why January Is the Right Time to Be Proactive About Glaucoma Care

With the start of the year offering a natural reset, January is an ideal time to schedule an exam and review eye health. Many patients commit to better wellness goals this time of year, and protecting vision should be part of that plan.

Understanding risk factors empowers patients to take early action, and early action is the most effective way to slow or prevent vision loss from glaucoma.

Glaucoma Care in Doylestown and Reading, PA

Take the first step in avoiding vision loss from glaucoma now. Call Galiani Ophthalmology Associates in Doylestown at 215-345-5144 or in Reading at 610-376-1981 to book your appointment for a glaucoma screening with our experts.