Protecting your vision starts with routine eye care and when it comes to conditions like glaucoma, early detection is essential. Often called the silent thief of sight, glaucoma can develop without noticeable symptoms until significant vision loss has already occurred. At Vision One Eyecare Center, we’re committed to helping patients stay ahead of this serious eye condition through regular screenings and personalized care.

What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma refers to a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, the bundle of nerve fibers that transmits visual information from your eye to your brain. This damage is often associated with elevated fluid pressure inside the eye, known as intraocular pressure. Over time, increased pressure can harm the optic nerve and lead to permanent vision loss. There are two main types of glaucoma:

• Open angle glaucoma: The most common form. Fluid drains too slowly through the eye’s drainage channels, causing pressure to build up.

• Angle closure glaucoma: A less common form. The drainage angle between the iris and cornea closes suddenly, leading to a rapid rise in pressure and requiring immediate medical attention.
   

Because early glaucoma rarely causes pain or noticeable vision changes, many people do not realize they have it until significant nerve damage has occurred.
 

The Importance of Early Detection

Early detection of glaucoma is critical. When identified in its initial stages, glaucoma can often be managed with medication or treatment to slow or prevent further vision loss. Regular comprehensive eye exams allow your eyecare professional to:

• Measure intraocular pressure

• Examine the optic nerve for signs of damage

• Assess your drainage angle and overall eye health

• Compare findings over time to detect even subtle changes
   

Without routine testing, glaucoma can progress quietly, robbing you of peripheral vision and eventually central vision. Scheduling consistent eye exams is your best defense against this silent thief of sight.
 

How Often to Get Tested

For most adults, the American Academy of Ophthalmology and leading eyecare associations recommend a complete eye exam at least once per year. An annual glaucoma screening typically includes:

• Tonometry to measure eye pressure

• Optic nerve evaluation via ophthalmoscopy or imaging

• Visual field testing to check peripheral vision
   

By testing every 12 months, your eyecare team can monitor pressure levels and nerve health, making timely adjustments to your care plan if needed. Annual exams also give you peace of mind, knowing your vision is under watchful care.
 

Who May Need More Frequent Eye Exams

While yearly testing suffices for many, certain individuals face higher glaucoma risk and should consider more frequent visits:

• Age over 60: Risk increases with age.

• Family history of glaucoma: Genetics can play a significant role.

• African or Hispanic heritage: Studies show higher incidence in these populations.

• High eye pressure readings: Any reading above the normal range warrants closer monitoring.

• Thin corneas: Corneal thickness can affect pressure measurements and risk.

• History of eye injury or surgery: Trauma or procedures can alter drainage function.

• Long term use of steroid medications: Some steroids can raise intraocular pressure.
   

If you fall into one or more of these categories, your optometrist may recommend exams every six months or even more often, depending on your unique risk profile.
 

Protect Your Sight at Vision One Eyecare Center

Glaucoma can steal your vision without warning, but with annual testing and proactive risk assessment, you can safeguard your eyesight for years to come. Our experienced team uses the latest diagnostic tools to detect glaucoma early and customize treatment plans tailored to your needs.

Schedule your glaucoma screening with Vision One Eyecare Center and take the first step toward lifelong eye health. Visit our office in Fort Mitchell or Dry Ridge, Kentucky. Please call (859) 267-1700 or (859) 407-7400 to book an appointment today.