Glaucoma is one of the most misunderstood eye conditions we manage at Dr. Michael J Haynes. Many patients in Monroe assume it only affects seniors or believe they would notice symptoms right away. Unfortunately, those assumptions can delay care and put long-term vision at risk.
Here are some of the most common misunderstandings our patients bring up, and explain what really matters:
The 5 Biggest Myths & Misconceptions About Glaucoma
Believing the wrong thing about glaucoma can delay diagnosis and cost you your sight. Here’s what you really need to know:
Myth #1: Glaucoma Only Affects Older Adults
Age does increase the risk of developing glaucoma, but this eye condition does not belong only to seniors. Adults in their 40s and 50s can develop glaucoma, especially if they have a family history of glaucoma, diabetes, or high blood pressure.
There are also rare cases of congenital glaucoma, which affects infants and young children. That is why age alone should never determine when someone gets regular eye exams.
Myth #2: If There’s No Pain, There’s No Problem
Most forms of glaucoma do not cause pain or irritation. In fact, many patients feel completely normal while glaucoma quietly causes damage to the optic nerve.
This lack of discomfort is what earns glaucoma its reputation as the silent thief of sight. By the time pain or vision changes appear, permanent peripheral vision loss may already exist.
Myth #3: Glaucoma Always Leads to Blindness
Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness, but it does not automatically result in vision loss. When caught early, treatment can slow or stop progression.
Medication, laser therapy, or surgery can help control intraocular pressure (IOP) and protect remaining vision. The real danger comes from undiagnosed or untreated glaucoma, not the diagnosis itself.
Myth #4: You Only Need an Eye Exam If Vision Changes
Many patients wait until they struggle to read or drive before seeing an eye doctor. Unfortunately, glaucoma often causes vision loss on the sides first, which many people overlook right away.
A comprehensive eye exam checks much more than clarity. It evaluates eye pressure, optic nerve health, and subtle changes that point to early glaucoma.
Myth #5: Glaucoma Is One Single Disease
Glaucoma is a group of related conditions that can damage the optic nerve. The most common types of glaucoma include:
- Open-angle glaucoma
- Angle-closure glaucoma
- Normal-tension glaucoma
- Secondary glaucoma
- Congenital glaucoma
Each form behaves differently, which is why individualized care and ongoing monitoring matter.
Top 5 Interesting Facts About Glaucoma
Glaucoma isn’t just one thing, and it doesn’t behave the same way in everyone. These fast facts break down what makes it different from other eye conditions:
- Glaucoma often causes vision loss without early warning signs. Most patients don’t notice any changes until peripheral vision is already affected.
- Peripheral vision loss usually comes before central vision loss. This makes glaucoma harder to detect on your own, which is why eye exams are essential.
- You can have glaucoma even with normal eye pressure. This form is called normal-tension glaucoma and requires close monitoring by an eye doctor.
- Family history is one of the biggest risk factors. If someone in your family has glaucoma, your own risk increases significantly.
- The only way to detect glaucoma early is through regular eye exams. A comprehensive eye exam checks for optic nerve damage and tracks pressure over time, long before symptoms appear.
How to Make Sure You Get the Right Information About Glaucoma
Online searches often mix myths about glaucoma with outdated or misleading advice. The most reliable way to protect your vision is through consistent care with an experienced eye doctor.
At Dr. Michael J Haynes, we use detailed testing and imaging during every comprehensive eye exam to assess glaucoma risk, measure intraocular pressure, and monitor optic nerve health over time. We also take time to explain results clearly, so patients understand their eye health and treatment options.
For patients in Monroe, this means trusted guidance, personalized care, and early detection when it matters most.
Take Control of Your Eye Health in Monroe Before Glaucoma Takes the Lead
Glaucoma does not have to steal your vision. Understanding the facts, recognizing your personal risk, and scheduling regular eye exams can make all the difference.
If you have concerns about glaucoma or it has been more than a year since your last appointment, contact Dr. Michael J Haynes to book your next comprehensive eye exam and get the help you deserve.