Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that cause optic nerve damage. This nerve transmits visual signals from the retina to the brain. Glaucoma can cause permanent vision loss, which often occurs without warning.
 

The disease does not exhibit symptoms in the early stages, and most people do not realize they have the eyesight-stealing condition. Most people seek treatment when they begin to notice vision changes. Find out at what age you should be tested for glaucoma.
 

About Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a severe eye condition that can lead to vision loss if left undiagnosed and untreated. People with early-stage glaucoma notice changes in their side or peripheral vision. The effect is gradual. That is why many only seek treatment when the condition is more advanced.
 

There are several types of glaucoma. They are open-angle, angle-closure, pigmentary, secondary, and normal-tension glaucoma. Open-angle glaucoma does not exhibit symptoms until the late stages. Angle-closure glaucoma usually develops faster, and the symptoms are more obvious.
 

Glaucoma Risk Factors

Some factors can increase the risk of developing glaucoma, such as:

• Age — People over 60 have a higher risk of getting glaucoma.
• A family history of the condition.
• Ethnicity.
• Diabetes.
• High blood pressure.
• Heart disease.
• Thin corneas.
• Severe myopia.
• High internal eye pressure.
• Long-term use of corticosteroids.
• Previous eye surgery or injury.

Early Detection of Glaucoma

Studies show the benefits of detecting glaucoma in its early stages. Unfortunately, over 50% of people with the condition are unaware of it. Early detection is the best way to control the disease. Eye pressure measurements help to detect the condition in its early stages.
 

Early diagnosis is essential for intervention through medication or surgery. By the time symptoms appear, damage has been done. Regular glaucoma screening can detect the disease while it is still treatable.
 

What Age Should You Be Tested

Eye specialists recommend comprehensive eye exams every five years for individuals below 40. Those above 45 should get exams that include glaucoma screening every two years. Individuals at higher risk of developing glaucoma should get more frequent screening.
 

High-risk individuals between 40 and 54 should get exams every one to three years. Those aged 55 to 64 should take exams annually or every two years. People over 65 should get an annual glaucoma screening or every six months. Eye doctors recommend exams based on overall eye health and risk level.
 

Regular Glaucoma Screening

If detected early, various treatment options can help to control glaucoma. Glaucoma screening involves several tests. They include assessing vision changes, measuring intraocular pressure, checking the eye’s drainage angle, and evaluating optic nerve damage.
 

Catching the disease in the early stages can help to protect eye health and prevent vision loss. If you have one or more risk factors, schedule more frequent eye exams to monitor eye health or vision changes.
 

Vision loss from glaucoma cannot be reversed. Scheduling regular eye exams is the best way to prevent vision loss from glaucoma. If you experience blurry vision, blind spots, eye pressure or pain, or tunnel vision, visit your eye doctor. You should also get an eye checkup if you experience frequent headaches.
 

For more information on the age at which you should be tested for glaucoma, visit Loman Eye Care. Our office is in Carmel, Indiana. Call (317) 844-7474 to book an appointment today.

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/22514-glaucoma-tests

https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/glaucoma-tests/