Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” because it can cause permanent vision loss before any obvious symptoms appear. It is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide — but the good news is, early screening and timely treatment can preserve your vision for life.
At Sunayan Eye Care, Bargarh, we emphasize the importance of regular glaucoma screening, especially for people at higher risk. This blog will help you understand when and why you should schedule your screening.
What Is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, usually due to increased intraocular pressure (IOP) — the pressure inside your eye. Over time, this damage can lead to progressive vision loss, starting from the periphery (side vision) and eventually affecting central vision if untreated.
Who Should Get a Glaucoma Screening?
Regular glaucoma screening is important for everyone, but certain groups are at higher risk.
1. People Above 40 Years of Age
After age 40, the risk of developing glaucoma rises significantly. Routine screening every 1–2 years is recommended.
2. Those with a Family History of Glaucoma
If your parents, grandparents, or siblings have glaucoma, your chances of developing it increase up to 4–9 times.
3. Individuals with Diabetes or Hypertension
Both diabetes and high blood pressure can damage blood vessels in the eye, increasing your glaucoma risk.
4. People with High Eye Pressure (Ocular Hypertension)
Even if you have no symptoms, elevated intraocular pressure can silently damage your optic nerve.
5. Those with Past Eye Injuries or Long-term Steroid Use
Eye trauma or prolonged use of steroid medications (oral, inhaled, or topical) can increase eye pressure.
6. Patients with Extreme Nearsightedness (Myopia)
High myopia (short-sightedness) is a known risk factor for glaucoma development.
When Should You Schedule a Glaucoma Screening?
Ages 20–39: Every 3–5 years (if no risk factors)
Ages 40–60: Every 2 years
Above 60 or at-risk individuals: Every year
👉 If you fall into a high-risk group, you should have annual glaucoma checkups, even if your vision seems normal.
How Is Glaucoma Screening Done?
A glaucoma screening is simple, painless, and quick. At Sunayana Eye Care, Bargarh, we use advanced diagnostic tools for accurate evaluation:
Tonometry: Measures eye pressure (IOP)
Optic Nerve Examination: Checks for optic nerve damage
Visual Field Test: Detects peripheral vision loss
OCT Scan (Optical Coherence Tomography): Creates detailed images of the optic nerve fibers
Pachymetry: Measures corneal thickness, which can influence eye pressure readings
Early Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore
While glaucoma often develops silently, some warning signs can appear:
Gradual loss of side (peripheral) vision
Blurred or patchy vision
Eye pain or redness
Seeing halos around lights
Headaches or nausea (especially in acute cases)
If you notice any of these symptoms, consult an eye specialist immediately.
Why Early Detection Matters
Glaucoma damage cannot be reversed — but early diagnosis can stop or slow progression. With timely medication, laser therapy, or surgery, most people can maintain good vision throughout life.
At Sunayana Eye Care, Bargarh, we provide comprehensive glaucoma care, from routine screening to advanced management and surgery.
Takeaway
Glaucoma may be silent, but your screening should not be.
If you’re over 40 or have risk factors such as diabetes or family history, don’t delay your glaucoma checkup. Early detection is the key to lifelong vision protection.
Visit Sunayan Eye Care
👁️ Your Trusted Eye Hospital in Bargarh
📍 Address: Sunayan Marg, Satyabati Enclave, Behind State Bank of India, Bargarh, Odisha
📞 Phone: +91 06646 203 636
✉️ Email: sunayaneyecare@yahoo.co.in
🌐 Website: www.sunayaneyecare.in