With glaucoma, silent vision loss can progress for years before you notice anything is wrong. At Vista Eye Specialists, board-certified ophthalmologist Binoy R. Jani, MD, helps patients in Fredericksburg and Culpeper protect their sight through early detection and personalized care.
Dr. Jani has been recognized as a Top Doctors winner in Ophthalmology for many years and is known for combining advanced technology with a highly individualized approach to eye health.
Glaucoma awareness is especially important right now, during Glaucoma Awareness Month in January, but understanding how this condition develops can help you protect your vision year-round.
Why Glaucoma Is Called the Silent Thief of Sight
Glaucoma is known as a silent condition because it almost always develops without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. Vision loss usually begins slowly, affecting peripheral vision first. Because the changes are so gradual, many people don’t realize anything is wrong until significant and permanent vision loss has already occurred.
The most common form of glaucoma, open-angle glaucoma, can quietly damage the optic nerve over a long period of time. Once vision is lost, it cannot be restored, which makes early diagnosis critical.
How Glaucoma Develops Over Time
Most forms of glaucoma occur when eye pressure (intraocular pressure) increases. When fluid within the eye doesn’t drain properly, pressure builds, which can place stress on the optic nerve. Over time, this pressure damages the nerve fibers that transmit visual information to the brain.
Although rare, some patients develop glaucoma even with normal eye pressure.
This is why routine eye exams are so important. Monitoring eye pressure, optic nerve health, and visual fields helps detect glaucoma before noticeable vision changes occur.
Who Is at Higher Risk for Glaucoma?
Certain factors increase the risk of developing glaucoma. Everyone over 60 has an increased risk of glaucoma. Certain people have a higher risk of developing it earlier, particularly Black and African American individuals, whose risk increases after age 40. Asian Americans and Hispanic/Latino people also have a higher risk of glaucoma.
In addition, a family history of the disease increases your own risk.
Because risk factors vary, there’s no single profile for who will develop glaucoma. Regular eye exams remain the most reliable way to detect early signs and get treatment when it’s most effective.
How Glaucoma Is Diagnosed and Managed
At Vista Eye Specialists, we diagnose glaucoma through a comprehensive eye exam that may include eye pressure testing, an optic nerve evaluation, advanced imaging, and visual field testing. Our advanced diagnostic technology allows for precise monitoring and early intervention.
While glaucoma isn’t curable, it’s manageable, and we can help you prevent progression. Treatment options may include prescription eye drops, laser procedures, or surgery, depending on the type and severity.
Schedule Your Glaucoma Screening in Fredericksburg
Glaucoma Awareness Month is a reminder that vision loss doesn’t always come with warning signs. If you’re due for an eye exam or have concerns about glaucoma, call 540-208-5827 to book an appointment with Dr. Jani.