The beginning of the year is a great time to schedule an eye exam and get your glaucoma checked.

Glaucoma includes a group of eye diseases that can damage the optic nerve and lead to vision loss and blindness. It is sometimes called the “silent thief” because glaucoma usually has no symptoms in the early stages, which is why it’s so important to get your glaucoma checked. Early detection and treatment can save your vision.

Who Gets Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is most common in people older than 60, but it can actually occur at any age. It’s more common in people with a family history of glaucoma, African Americans, and people with diabetes. If you know you’re at a higher risk for glaucoma, it’s especially important to get your eyes checked regularly.

About the Exam

An eye exam for glaucoma typically includes a visual acuity test, a visual field test, and an examination of the eye’s internal pressure and optic nerve. These tests are used to detect signs of glaucoma, such as increased eye pressure, optic nerve damage, and visual field loss.

If glaucoma is detected, treatment options might include eye drops, laser therapy, and surgery. Our goal with the treatment is to lower your eye pressure and prevent further damage to the optic nerve. It’s important to follow your eye doctor’s instructions and continue with the treatment to prevent vision loss.

Eyes and Diabetes

This is also a good time to schedule an eye exam if you have diabetes. Diabetic eye disease, including diabetic retinopathy, is a leading cause of blindness in adults. Regular eye exams can detect diabetic eye disease early, when treatment can be most effective.

Take care of your eyes and schedule an appointment with your eye doctor. Early detection and treatment can prevent vision loss and keep you seeing clearly for years to come.