Who is at Risk For Glaucoma?

Regardless of your vision history or any other special circumstances, it is typically advisable to have an eye test once annually. Even though there may not be any noticeable underlying issues, an annual eye exam will give your optometrist the opportunity to notice any potential problems that might not be readily apparent. This is particularly true in regards to glaucoma, the symptoms of which can be difficult to notice in the early stages.

What Is Glaucoma?

More than 64 million people live with glaucoma, a condition that affects the retina and optic nerve. Eventually, this condition results in irreversible blindness. While there is not yet a cure for glaucoma, there are steps that can be taken to keep the condition from growing worse. Among those steps are glaucoma tests.

The American Optometric Association advises individuals between the ages of 18 and 60 receive an examination once every two years. Persons who are at increased risk should have exams once annually.

Who Is at Risk for Glaucoma?

Individuals who are at risk for glaucoma include anyone who has or who has a family history of high blood pressure and/or diabetes as well as anyone age 60 or older. Anyone who has been diagnosed as having sleep apnea could also be at risk for glaucoma.

What Is Involved in a Glaucoma Test?

Regular eye exams are among the single best ways to identify the symptoms of glaucoma early on, providing the opportunity to prevent the condition from growing worse. During a glaucoma exam, you will undergo a series of tests to determine possible sight loss as well as examine the condition of the optic nerve. Glaucoma tests also evaluate pressure within the eyes. This is important as this condition results in fluid building up inside the eye, which also causes a build-up of pressure. When left untreated, this build-up can result in permanent loss of vision.

The most common form of glaucoma is open-angle glaucoma. This form of the condition causes eye pressure to increase; however, there are typically no symptoms during the onset of the condition. Consequently, approximately half of individuals with glaucoma never even know they have it. Regular eye exams remain the best way to spot this condition as early as possible and preserve your vision. Contact us today for more information.