Why Regular Eye Exams Are Crucial: Glaucoma Can Strike Without Warning
Don’t think you have anything in common with celebrities? Well, both Christie Brinkley and Bono were shocked when they were diagnosed with glaucoma, despite not experiencing any obvious issues with their vision. These high-profile cases highlight a serious truth about the disease: glaucoma can cause significant vision loss long before any symptoms become noticeable. As one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide, glaucoma quietly damages the optic nerve, and once vision is lost, it cannot be recovered. That’s why The Eye MDs, in partnership with the American Academy of Ophthalmology, strongly encourages everyone to get regular eye exams to detect this silent threat before it’s too late.
What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is actually a group of eye diseases that slowly damage the optic nerve, which is responsible for transmitting visual information from the eye to the brain. Because the condition typically progresses very gradually and affects peripheral (side) vision first, individuals may not realize anything is wrong until the damage is quite advanced. In fact, central vision—the vision used for tasks like reading, driving, or watching television—usually remains intact until the disease has progressed significantly.
This lack of early warning makes glaucoma especially dangerous. By the time a person notices vision changes, the disease may have already caused irreversible damage. The key takeaway: catching it early can make a huge difference in preventing further loss of vision.
Early Diagnosis Is Key to Protecting Your Vision
Glaucoma doesn’t have to result in blindness. If diagnosed early, it can be managed effectively with treatments like medicated eye drops or laser therapy. “Skipping routine eye exams might seem harmless if you’re not noticing any changes in your vision, but many eye conditions—including glaucoma—can cause damage without any obvious signs,” says Dianna Seldomridge, M.D., clinical spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology. “The best defense against permanent vision loss from glaucoma is early detection.”
Who Should Be Screened for Glaucoma?
The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that healthy adults get a comprehensive eye exam by the time they reach 40 to check for glaucoma and other eye diseases that could lead to blindness. If glaucoma or other eye conditions run in your family, it’s important to see an ophthalmologist earlier, as you may be at a higher risk.
So, who is most at risk for developing glaucoma? Let’s take a look at the groups that should be especially vigilant about eye exams:
- African Americans
African Americans are at a significantly higher risk for glaucoma—6 to 8 times more likely to develop the condition compared to white Americans. They are also more likely to suffer vision loss due to glaucoma. - Hispanic Americans
Hispanic Americans face a similar risk to African Americans, with the added concern that glaucoma may progress more quickly as they age. - Asians
Asian individuals are more likely to develop certain rarer forms of glaucoma, including angle-closure glaucoma and normal-tension glaucoma, both of which can cause vision loss if not detected early. - People with a Family History of Glaucoma
If glaucoma runs in your family, your risk of developing the disease is higher. Make sure to discuss your family history with your eye doctor. - People with Diabetes
Diabetes increases the risk of glaucoma. In fact, people with diabetes are twice as likely to develop the disease compared to those without diabetes. - People Who Are Severely Nearsighted
Those who are highly nearsighted (myopic) are also at greater risk of developing glaucoma. - Anyone Over 40
Age is a significant risk factor. Once you hit 40, it’s time to start having regular eye exams to screen for glaucoma, even if you’re not experiencing symptoms.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Regular eye exams are crucial in detecting glaucoma early. If you’re over 40, or if you belong to any of the high-risk groups mentioned above, scheduling an eye exam should be a priority. The good news is that glaucoma can be treated effectively when caught early, and vision loss can often be prevented with proper management.
For more information on glaucoma and tips for protecting your eye health, visit the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s EyeSmart website.
Remember, glaucoma may be a silent threat, but it doesn’t have to steal your vision. Stay ahead of the disease with regular eye screenings.