How Regular Glaucoma Exams Can Protect Your Vision

Glaucoma is a serious eye condition, and, unfortunately, many people neglect to seek help until it is too late. Commonly referred to as the silent thief of sight, the condition can progress slowly without any obvious signs in its early stages. This is why regular tests are fundamental. In this blog, we explore how glaucoma affects your vision and the importance of regular exams in preventing vision loss.

What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a condition that harms the optic nerve, frequently caused by elevated pressure within the eye. This can lead to partial or even total vision loss if not detected and treated early. The most common form of glaucoma, known as primary open-angle glaucoma, progresses slowly and often goes unnoticed for a long time. Those affected may not experience any noticeable symptoms until significant damage has occurred to their vision. For this reason, early regular eye exams play a fundamental role in the early detection and effective treatment of glaucoma.

Who Is at Risk?

Some factors can increase the risk of developing glaucoma. These include:

• Age: Individuals over 60 are at a higher risk.

• Family history: If glaucoma runs in your family, you may be more susceptible.

• Ethnicity: African Americans and Hispanic Americans are at greater risk.

• Medical conditions: Conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure can increase your risk.

• High myopia: Thin cornea as a result of LASIK surgery.

The Importance of Regular Glaucoma Exams

1. Early Detection

Unfortunately, many individuals with glaucoma do not notice any symptoms until considerable damage has already occurred. Regular glaucoma exams allow for early detection, which is crucial for effective treatment. The sooner glaucoma is identified, the better the chances of preventing complications and preserving your vision.

2. Comprehensive Eye Health Monitoring

A glaucoma exam is part of a comprehensive eye exam that evaluates your overall eye health. With regular and comprehensive tests, experienced professionals can assess various aspects of your eye health, including intraocular pressure, optic nerve appearance, and peripheral vision.

3. Tailored Treatment Plans

If diagnosed with glaucoma, your eye care professional will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan. This may include prescription eye drops, laser treatment, or surgery, depending on the severity of your condition. Regular exams ensure that your treatment is effective and adjusted as needed.

Common Glaucoma Tests

 

During a glaucoma eye exam, several tests are performed to assess the health of your eyes:

• Tonometry: This test measures the internal pressure of your eyes. Elevated pressure can be a sign of glaucoma.

• Perimetry: Also known as visual field-testing, this assesses your peripheral vision, which can be affected by glaucoma.

• Pachymetry: This test measures the thickness of your cornea, which can help evaluate your risk of developing glaucoma.

• Digital retinal imaging: A photo of the optic nerve and retina is taken to view the optic nerves and to look for changes in the optic nerve cupping or any abnormalities to the optic nerve. The optic nerve is compared annually to see if there is any changes to the nerve to indicate progression of glaucoma.

• Optical Coherence Topography: A non-invasive, non-contact imaging technique that generates high resolution cross sectional images used to detect nerve fiber layer thinning that occurs in glaucoma. This provides earlier detection than visual field testing to ensure early treatment before developing permanent vision loss. This test is done every 6 months or every year for patients with or at risk of glaucoma. This test is also used to test and screen for glaucoma during an annual eye examination

These tests are quick, painless, and provide invaluable information about your eye health. By undergoing regular eye exams, you can catch problems early and take proactive steps to protect your vision.

Your Trusted Optometrists in Windsor and Tecumseh

Early detection of glaucoma can significantly contribute to effective treatments and increase the chances of a positive outcome. Don’t put your vision at risk; schedule your glaucoma exam today. If you're in Windsor, contact us at Bellemore Optometry. In Tecumseh, find us at Eyes on Tecumseh—we’re here to support your eye health at every stage of life. Reach out to us!