Glaucoma Awareness Month 2026

Glaucoma Awareness Month is an important reminder of how vital regular eye examinations are in protecting long-term vision. Often referred to as the “silent thief of sight”, glaucoma can develop slowly and without noticeable symptoms. By the time changes in vision are detected, permanent damage may have already occurred. This is why early detection and ongoing care are essential.

At Derbyshire Opticians, we are proud to support our local community by raising awareness of glaucoma and encouraging families to prioritise their eye health. 

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of conditions in which pressure builds up in the eye and damages the optic nerve, leading to gradual and irreversible vision loss. It develops by the fluid building up in the eye, increasing pressure and causing damage to the optic nerve which creates blind spots in your vision.  

Because glaucoma often has no early warning signs, many people are unaware they have it. Routine eye examinations allow optometrists to check eye pressure and assess the health of the optic nerve, helping identify glaucoma at an early stage when treatment can be most effective.

The most common type, open-angle glaucoma, develops slowly and painlessly as the eye’s drainage system becomes less effective. Closed-angle glaucoma is less common but more serious, as it can cause a sudden rise in eye pressure and painful symptoms that need urgent medical care. There are also other forms of glaucoma, including normal-tension glaucoma, congenital glaucoma (present from birth), and secondary glaucoma, which can develop due to injury, medications, or health conditions.

Who is Most at Risk?

Glaucoma can affect anyone, but certain groups within our community are at a higher risk and may benefit from more regular eye examinations. Here are some of the most at risk demographics:

• People aged 40+
• Family history of glaucoma
• African, Caribbean, or Asian heritage
• Medical conditions
• Eye trauma 
• Long-term use of steroid medications

Regular eye examinations play a vital role in identifying glaucoma early, particularly for those in higher-risk groups. Early detection allows for timely treatment and ongoing care, helping to protect sight and support long-term eye health for individuals and families across our local community.

Looking After Your Family

As local opticians, we understand the importance of caring for generations of families within our community. From children attending their first eye exam to supporting older family members with ongoing eye health needs, we take the time to provide personalised, compassionate care for everyone who walks through our doors. 

Encouraging family members to attend regular eye exams together can help identify hereditary conditions such as glaucoma early, offering reassurance and peace of mind for the whole family. 

Our practices combine the latest in diagnostic technology with a friendly, knowledgeable team who are committed to delivering high-quality eye care. We believe that great care starts with listening, taking time, and ensuring every patient understands their eye health and any steps needed to protect it.

Take Action This Glaucoma Awareness Month

Glaucoma Awareness Month is the perfect opportunity to book an eye exam for yourself or encourage a loved one to do the same. Regular eye exams are one of the most effective ways to protect your vision and maintain independence and quality of life.

If it’s been a while since your last eye exam, or if glaucoma runs in your family, please get in touch with our practice to book an appointment.

Book online or call your local practice: 

Lorraine Bonete Opticians, Dronfield- 01246 292088

David Brays Opticians, Matlock- 01629 584280

Bakewell Opticians- 01629 813532