Glaucoma is often called the "silent thief of sight" because it can gradually steal vision without any noticeable symptoms until significant damage has already occurred. Early detection and treatment are critical to preventing irreversible vision loss. Regular eye exams play a vital role in identifying glaucoma at its earliest stages, even before symptoms manifest.

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, which is crucial for healthy vision. The most common type of glaucoma, open-angle glaucoma, typically develops slowly and painlessly. Without regular monitoring, it may go unnoticed for years, eventually leading to permanent vision loss. Angle-closure glaucoma, on the other hand, can develop more quickly and cause immediate symptoms, such as severe eye pain and blurred vision, requiring prompt medical attention.
 

Early Detection Saves Sight

Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness in the world, but it can be treated if caught early. Since glaucoma progresses without obvious warning signs, only a comprehensive eye exam can reveal increased eye pressure or damage to the optic nerve. Regular eye exams allow your eye doctor to detect glaucoma early, before vision loss occurs.
 

Monitoring Eye Pressure

Eye pressure, or intraocular pressure (IOP), is a key indicator of glaucoma risk. During a regular eye exam, your eye doctor will measure your IOP. Elevated eye pressure can indicate the early stages of glaucoma. Although high IOP doesn’t always mean you have glaucoma, it’s an important risk factor that should be closely monitored.
 

Tracking Changes in the Optic Nerve

Your optic nerve transmits visual information from your eyes to your brain. Glaucoma damages this nerve over time, leading to vision loss. During regular eye exams, your optometrist will use specialized tools to assess the health of your optic nerve, enabling them to spot any subtle changes that might indicate the onset of glaucoma.
 

Visual Field Testing

Another important aspect of glaucoma detection is visual field testing, which measures your peripheral vision. Glaucoma typically affects side vision first, so regular testing can help catch these changes early on, before they progress to central vision loss.
 

Customized Treatment Plans

If glaucoma is detected, your eye doctor will create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Treatment often involves prescription eye drops to lower eye pressure, laser therapy, or surgery in advanced cases. Regular eye exams ensure that any treatment plan is working effectively and can be adjusted as necessary.
 

How Often Should You Get an Eye Exam?

The frequency of eye exams depends on several factors, including your age, family history, and overall eye health. However, it’s recommended that everyone receive annual eye exams. Since glaucoma often develops without noticeable symptoms, yearly checkups are crucial for early detection and prevention of vision loss. If you’re at higher risk, such as having a family history of glaucoma, your eye doctor may recommend more frequent exams to ensure timely detection and treatment.
 

Protect Your Vision Today

Glaucoma doesn’t wait, and neither should you. At GrandView Eyecare, we are committed to helping you protect your vision. Our comprehensive eye exams include all the necessary tests for early glaucoma detection, giving you peace of mind and preserving your sight.
 

Don’t let glaucoma catch you by surprise, schedule your eye exam with GrandView Eyecare at our office in Fairbury or Hebron, Nebraska. Call (402) 729-6162 or (402) 768-6651 to book an appointment today.