Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that can damage the optic nerve, which sends visual information from your eyes to your brain. Because early glaucoma often develops without pain or noticeable vision changes, glaucoma exams are important for detecting signs of the disease before permanent vision loss occurs.
Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” because it can slowly steal peripheral vision before a person realizes anything is wrong.
What causes glaucoma?
Glaucoma is commonly linked to increased pressure inside the eye, also called intraocular pressure. This pressure can build when fluid inside the eye does not drain properly. Over time, that pressure may damage the optic nerve.
However, not everyone with glaucoma has high eye pressure, and not everyone with high eye pressure develops glaucoma. That is why a comprehensive exam matters. Your eye doctor looks at several factors, not pressure alone, when evaluating your risk.
Why does glaucoma often go unnoticed?
Most types of glaucoma progress gradually. In the early stages, central vision usually stays clear, and there may be no redness, discomfort, or obvious warning signs. Vision loss often begins at the edges of your sight, making it harder to notice in daily life.
As glaucoma advances, people may experience:
- Patchy blind spots
- Loss of side vision
- Trouble seeing in dim lighting
- Tunnel vision in later stages
- Permanent vision loss if untreated
Once glaucoma-related vision loss occurs, it cannot be reversed. The goal of diagnosis and treatment is to slow or prevent further damage.
Who is at higher risk for glaucoma?
Anyone can develop glaucoma, but certain factors can increase your risk. You may need more frequent monitoring if you:
- Are over age 40
- Have a family history of glaucoma
- Have diabetes, high blood pressure, or certain vascular conditions
- Are very nearsighted or farsighted
- Have had an eye injury
- Use steroid medications
- Have been told you have elevated eye pressure
Because risk can vary from person to person, a comprehensive eye exam is one of the best ways to understand your eye health and catch concerns early.
What happens during a glaucoma exam?
A glaucoma evaluation may include several tests to check how your eyes are functioning and whether the optic nerve shows signs of damage. Your eye doctor may measure eye pressure, examine the optic nerve, assess side vision, and evaluate the drainage angle of the eye.
These tests are typically comfortable and give your doctor a clearer picture of your long-term risk. If glaucoma is suspected or diagnosed, treatment may include prescription eye drops, laser treatment, surgery, or ongoing monitoring depending on the severity and type of glaucoma.
Protect your sight with early glaucoma detection
Glaucoma can be quiet, but regular eye care gives you a chance to catch it before it causes noticeable vision loss. If you have risk factors for glaucoma or it has been a while since your last exam, schedule an appointment with us. Early detection and ongoing monitoring can help protect the vision you rely on every day.
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