Why Regular Eye Exams Are Essential for Early Glaucoma Detection

Vision is something many of us take for granted, until it is threatened by conditions that often show no early warning signs. Glaucoma is one of those conditions, quietly damaging the optic nerve and slowly stealing sight over time. The challenge with glaucoma is that you can feel perfectly fine and still be at risk. Regular eye exams give your optometrist the chance to detect glaucoma early, often before you experience any symptoms, and take steps to protect your sight for the long term.
 

The Hidden Nature of Glaucoma

Glaucoma usually progresses without pain or obvious symptoms. Most people with early-stage glaucoma have no idea that anything is wrong. By the time vision changes are noticed, irreversible damage may have already happened. This is especially true with the most common type: open-angle glaucoma.
 

What Happens During a Glaucoma Screening?

A comprehensive eye exam for glaucoma goes beyond simply checking your vision. Your optometrist will use advanced technology to measure the pressure inside your eyes, assess the health of your optic nerve, and test your peripheral vision. At BLINK, we use the latest diagnostic tools to catch even subtle changes, so any signs of glaucoma can be identified as early as possible.
 

Early Detection Means Better Outcomes

While there is no cure for glaucoma, treatments can slow or halt the progression of the disease if it is caught early. This can include medicated eye drops, laser therapy, or surgery. When left untreated, however, glaucoma can lead to permanent vision loss or even blindness. Routine eye exams are the single best way to detect glaucoma in its earliest and most treatable stages.
 

How Often Should You Get an Eye Exam?

The American Optometric Association recommends adults have a comprehensive eye exam every year, depending on your age, risk factors, and overall eye health. If you have a family history of glaucoma or other risk factors, your eye doctor may recommend more frequent screenings. Regular exams are especially important as you get older, since the risk of glaucoma increases with age.
 

Make Your Eye Health a Priority at BLINK

Glaucoma remains one of the leading causes of preventable vision loss, largely because it can develop without noticeable symptoms. By making regular eye exams a priority, you give yourself the best chance of catching glaucoma early, when treatment can be most effective. Protecting your eyesight starts with being proactive about your eye health.

Schedule your comprehensive eye exam with BLINK and stay ahead of glaucoma and protect your vision for years to come. Visit our office on Newbury Street in Boston, or reach us at (617) 780-0728 to book your appointment today.