How much do you value your ability to see the world clearly? For most of us, our sight is our most precious sense, yet we often take it for granted until it is at risk.
Did you know that nearly three million Americans live with glaucoma, but half of them are completely unaware they have it? Because this condition often lacks early warning signs or physical pain, it has earned the nickname the “Silent Thief of Sight.”
As we observe Glaucoma Awareness Month this January 2026, the team at Kings Eye Center wants to share a message of hope. A glaucoma diagnosis is no longer the frightening prospect it once was. With the rapid evolution of medical technology, we now offer sophisticated, effective, and convenient treatments that can protect your sight for a lifetime.
What is Glaucoma and Why is it So Sneaky?
Glaucoma is not just a single disease but a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve. Think of the optic nerve as a high-speed data cable that sends visual information from your eye to your brain. When this “cable” is damaged, usually due to high fluid pressure inside the eye (intraocular pressure), the connection begins to fail.
The danger lies in its progression. Most forms of glaucoma develop so slowly that you don’t notice a change in your vision until the disease is at an advanced stage. By the time “tunnel vision” or blurred patches appear, the damage to the optic nerve is permanent.
While anyone can develop glaucoma, certain factors increase your risk:
- Age: Individuals over 60 are at higher risk.
- Family History: Glaucoma can be hereditary.
- Health Conditions: Diabetes and high blood pressure can contribute to eye pressure issues.
- Ethnicity: African Americans, Hispanics, and Latinos are statistically more likely to develop the condition.
For our community here in Hanford, regular screenings are the only way to catch this thief before it steals your vision.
Modern Breakthroughs in Glaucoma Care for 2026
For decades, the primary way to manage glaucoma was through the daily application of medicated eye drops. While effective, these drops can be difficult to manage, expensive, and often cause side effects like redness or irritation.
Today, we have entered a “Golden Age” of glaucoma care. At Kings Eye Center, we leverage these breakthroughs to provide better outcomes with less daily hassle.
Laser-Based Glaucoma Treatments
Laser therapy can improve the eye’s natural drainage or reduce fluid production without incisions.
- Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) and Streamline™ Trabeculoplasty enhance fluid outflow through the eye’s natural drainage system and are often used as first-line or adjunct treatments.
- Cyclophotocoagulation (CPC) lowers eye pressure by safely reducing fluid production and is typically used for more advanced or complex cases.
Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS)
MIGS procedures are designed for mild-to-moderate glaucoma and use microscopic techniques to improve fluid drainage with minimal disruption to the eye.
- These procedures offer a strong safety profile, faster recovery, and reduced reliance on eye drops.
- MIGS is frequently combined with cataract surgery for added convenience.
- iTrack™ Canaloplasty restores the eye’s natural drainage canal without leaving a permanent implant.
Traditional Glaucoma Surgery
- Trabeculectomy creates a new drainage pathway to significantly lower eye pressure.
- Glaucoma drainage implants use specialized tubes or shunts to redirect fluid and reduce pressure in complex cases.
For patients with advanced or difficult-to-control glaucoma, more traditional surgical options may be recommended.
Real Stories: Patient Experiences at Kings Eye Center
“Dr. Hernandez is excellent. She is knowledgeable, informative, and genuinely kind. She took the time to clearly explain my glaucoma diagnosis and treatment plan, and my overall experience was outstanding.”
Take Control of Your Vision This January
Your eyes are your window to the world. Don’t let the “Silent Thief” take away your ability to see the people and places you love. This Glaucoma Awareness Month, give yourself the gift of clarity and peace of mind.
Whether you are looking for a routine check-up or are interested in the latest advances in glaucoma treatment, our team is ready to help. We are proud to serve the Hanford community and surrounding areas with the highest standard of eye care.
