How Often Should You Be Screened for Glaucoma?

Have you had a full eye exam lately? Not a quick vision check, but a real look at the health of your eyes. Glaucoma often gives no warning. No pain. No blurriness. Nothing. So, knowing how often to get screened makes all the difference.

The right schedule depends on your age, your background, and your overall health. So, when should you be screened?

·      If You Are Under 40 and Have No Risk Factors

If you are young and healthy with no family history of eye disease, a complete eye exam every five to 10 years is a solid baseline. At this age, your risk for glaucoma is low. A screening every few years is usually enough to catch any early changes.

·      Between the Ages of 40 and 54

Once you enter your 40s, things shift. This is when early signs of glaucoma can begin to appear. The recommended screening frequency moves to every one to three years. Do not wait for symptoms, as there may be none.

·      Between the Ages of 55 and 64

Over these years, your risk rises. Experts suggest getting an eye exam every one to two years. Regular screening becomes even more important now, since age alone is a major risk factor for glaucoma.

·      Age 65 and Older

At this stage, make a full eye exam a yearly habit. The risk of glaucoma rises significantly after age 65. Annual screenings give the best chance of catching any damage early and protecting the vision you have.

·      If You Have a Family History

Does glaucoma run in your family? If a parent or sibling has it, your risk can soar, sometimes by up to nine times. Do not wait until 40 to start screening.

Many doctors suggest getting a baseline exam in your 30s, then follow up every one to two years. Your doctor can help tailor the schedule to your unique risk.

·      If You Are of Hispanic, African, or Asian Descent

Does your ethnic background play a role? It can, more than most people realize.

African Americans face a much higher risk for glaucoma, and it often shows up earlier. So, starting screening by age 35, with exams every one to two years, is a really smart move.

For Hispanic adults, the risk climbs sharply after age 60. Making yearly checkups a habit at that stage is well worth it.

If you are of Asian descent, you are more prone to a specific type called angle-closure glaucoma. Starting regular exams early can catch it before it causes any trouble.

·      If You Have Other Health Conditions

Some health conditions can tip the odds against you. Diabetes, high blood pressure, and long-term steroid use all increase your risk for glaucoma. If any of these sound familiar, sign up for eye exams every one to two years, no matter your age.

The same goes if you have had high eye pressure or thin corneas in past exams. These are silent warning signs your doctor will keep an eye on.

·      If You Have Already Been Diagnosed With Glaucoma

After a glaucoma diagnosis, eye exams become a regular part of life. Most people see their eye doctor every three to 12 months, depending on how stable things are. If your eye pressure and vision are steady, you might stretch out visits.

If changes are happening, you will need to go more often. These checkups help your doctor keep close watch on your eye pressure, optic nerve, and side vision.

For more information on glaucoma screening frequency, visit Modoc Family Optometry. Our office is in Alturas, California. To book an appointment today, call (530) 233-2020.

https://www.glaucomapatients.org/examination/how-frequently-should-i-get-my-eyes-examined/