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January is Glaucoma Awareness Month, a time dedicated to spreading awareness about a condition often called "the silent thief of sight." With over 3 million Americans living with glaucoma and half unaware they even have it, the need for early detection, education, and support has never been greater. At Conklin Davis Center for the Visually Impaired, we are committed to providing individuals affected by vision loss with the tools, skills, and opportunities to lead fulfilling lives.
In this blog, we'll explore the different types of glaucoma, the importance of early detection, and practical steps you can take to protect your vision in 2025. We'll also highlight how Conklin Davis Center's comprehensive programs empower those living with vision impairments to thrive.
What Is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, often caused by increased pressure in the eye. If left untreated, this damage can lead to irreversible vision loss. Regular eye exams are critical for early detection since they progress slowly and without noticeable symptoms in their early stages.
Types of Glaucoma
Understanding the types of glaucoma can help raise awareness and promote early intervention:
Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma
The most common form accounts for nearly 90% of cases.
This is caused by a gradual blockage of drainage canals, leading to increased intraocular pressure.
Angle-Closure Glaucoma
Less common but more severe, this occurs when the drainage angle is physically blocked.
Symptoms include sudden eye pain, nausea, and blurry vision, requiring immediate medical attention.
Normal-Tension Glaucoma
It occurs even when eye pressure is within the normal range.
It is believed to be caused by poor blood flow to the optic nerve.
Congenital Glaucoma
A rare form that affects infants and young children is caused by improper development of the eye's drainage system.
Secondary Glaucoma
Other conditions, such as diabetes, injury, or certain medications, cause it.
How Glaucoma Affects Lives
Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide, with approximately 80 million people affected globally. By 2040, this number is expected to increase to 111.8 million. Without early detection and treatment, glaucoma can cause significant vision loss, leading to challenges in daily living, employment, and independence.
Steps to Protect Your Vision in 2025
1. Get Regular Eye Exams
Annual eye exams are your first line of defense. Comprehensive exams include measuring eye pressure, assessing the optic nerve, and testing peripheral vision to detect glaucoma early.
2. Know Your Risk Factors
Specific individuals are at higher risk for glaucoma, including:
People over 60 years old
African Americans over 40 years old
Those with a family history of glaucoma
Individuals with diabetes or high blood pressure
If you fall into one of these categories, talk to your doctor about more frequent screenings.
3. Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can protect your overall eye health:
Exercise Regularly: Activities like walking or yoga can lower eye pressure.
Eat for Eye Health: Incorporate leafy greens, carrots, and omega-3-rich foods into your diet.
Avoid Smoking: Smoking reduces blood flow to the optic nerve.
4. Use Prescribed Medications Correctly
For those already diagnosed with glaucoma, adherence to prescribed treatments, such as eye drops, is essential to control eye pressure and prevent further damage.
5. Educate Yourself and Others
Glaucoma Awareness Month is the perfect opportunity to share information with family and friends. Educating others can encourage early detection and reduce your community's risk of vision loss.
Conklin Davis Center's Commitment to Empowerment
At Conklin Davis Center, we understand the challenges glaucoma can bring. Our mission is to provide individuals affected by vision impairments with the tools, confidence, and support they need to lead successful and independent lives.
Programs Designed to Transform Lives
Supported Living Services
We help individuals develop essential daily living skills, from cooking and cleaning to personal finance management, enabling them to live independently.
Vocational Rehabilitation
Our job training programs prepare clients for employment, helping them regain financial independence and a sense of purpose.
Technology Training
Assistive technologies like screen readers and magnifiers are integral to navigating the modern world. We provide comprehensive training to ensure our clients stay connected and informed.
Recreational and Social Opportunities
We believe fostering community connections and encouraging recreational activities improve mental health and well-being.
Make 2025 Your Best Year Yet
Starting the new year with the right mindset, skills, and support can set the tone for a brighter future. For those living with glaucoma or other vision impairments, this means leveraging resources like those provided by Conklin Davis Center to overcome challenges and achieve personal success.
Why Choose Conklin Davis Center?
Located in the heart of Daytona Beach, our state-of-the-art facility is the only comprehensive blind services complex in the United States. We are committed to serving over 500 individuals annually, empowering them to overcome the obstacles vision loss presents.
This Glaucoma Awareness Month, take charge of your vision health. Schedule an eye exam, educate yourself and others, and explore the transformative services available at Conklin Davis Center. Together, we can make 2025 the year of hope, opportunity, and independence for individuals living with vision impairments.
To learn more about our programs or schedule a consultation, contact Conklin Davis Center today. Your journey toward independence and success starts here.
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