January is Glaucoma Awareness Month. Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that cause progressive damage to the optic nerve, resulting in loss of vision.

In the U.S., more than 3 million people have been diagnosed with glaucoma. It is the second leading cause of blindness globally (cataracts are first). Since glaucoma often begins with no discernible symptoms, regular eye exams are important, especially for those who fall in the high risk category.

Who is at risk for glaucoma?

I will never forget a patient I had about 7 years ago who almost ran into a wall walking back to the exam room. Patients like to joke about walking into walls or tripping after I dilate them because they can't see, but this patient wasn't kidding. Unfortunately, as I examined him, I discovered that he had late-stage glaucoma and very limited peripheral vision. His eye pressures were very elevated. His last eye exam had been 10 years earlier. All I could do for him at this point was prescribe him temporary glaucoma medications and get him quickly to the glaucoma surgeon before he lost all of his vision.

I thought I would share updates and tips on some of the medical conditions we often treat.

Pink eye

There are different types of pink eye (conjunctivitis): allergic, viral, and bacterial. We have an exciting new test to help diagnose viral conjunctivitis. It is nice to have a definitive diagnosis so antibiotics are properly prescribed.

TIP: If you have viral or bacterial conjunctivitis, the discharge from the eyes is highly contagious. Be sure to wash your hands especially after touching your eyes and do not to share face towels with anyone.