At What Age Should People Start Getting Screened for Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve. The effect is so gradual that you may not notice a change in vision until the condition is at an advanced stage. Because vision loss due to glaucoma can't be recovered, it's important to have regular eye exams that include measurements of your eye pressure so a diagnosis can be made in its early stages and treated appropriately.

Risk Factors for Glaucoma

There are several risk factors associated with glaucoma. Age is a significant risk factor — as you get older, you're more likely to get the condition. Glaucoma is much more common in people over the age of 60.
 

Family history also plays a role. If you have a family member with glaucoma, you're more likely to develop the condition. Other risk factors include conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure. Certain physical eye conditions, such as high internal eye pressure, thin corneas, or severe nearsightedness, can also increase your risk.
 

Another significant risk factor is the use of corticosteroids for prolonged periods. Studies have shown that long-term usage of these drugs could elevate your eye pressure, leading to glaucoma.
 

Why Early Glaucoma Screenings Matter

Early detection and treatment of glaucoma, before it causes major vision loss, is the best way to control the condition. Since glaucoma symptoms do not usually appear until some damage has already been done, regular screenings can catch the disease in its early stages.
 

Glaucoma screenings involve a series of tests to measure intraocular pressure, inspect the eye's drainage angle, evaluate any optic nerve damage, and assess changes in vision. Catching glaucoma early can help protect your eyes against vision loss.
 

Regular screening is especially important if you have any of the risk factors for glaucoma. If detected early, glaucoma can often be controlled and serious vision loss can be prevented. Vision that is lost from glaucoma cannot be restored, which is why early detection is so crucial.
 

At What Age to Start Glaucoma Screening?

The question of when to start screening for glaucoma is a critical one. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that adults with no signs or risk factors for eye disease get a baseline eye disease screening at age 40. If you have one or more risk factors for glaucoma, you should have a comprehensive eye exam with an ophthalmologist every one to two years after age 35.
 

Protecting Your Vision

Protect your vision by staying vigilant, understanding your risk factors, and getting screened for glaucoma regularly. Stay one step ahead with regular screenings and early detection.
 

If you are at the age of 40, or at risk of glaucoma, schedule a screening at Quality Eye Care in our Jacksonville or Gainesville, Florida office. Quality and thoroughness of ophthalmologic care is our goal. Call (904) 601-1300 to book your appointment today.