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World Glaucoma Day 2025: Risk Factors and Preventing Vision Loss

By Dr. Smriti Goel in Eye Care / Ophthalmology

Mar 17 , 2025 | 5 min read

Glaucoma is referred to as the "silent thief of sight," as it usually progresses without noticeable symptoms until significant vision loss occurs. This eye condition is a major cause of blindness globally, affecting millions.

Early detection and proper management can help slow or even stop glaucoma progression, preserving vision and quality of life. This highlights the vital importance of regular eye exams in detecting glaucoma early. This blog will explore glaucoma, why regular eye exams are essential, and how they can help in early detection and management.

Understanding Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a group of eye disorders that harm the optic nerve, necessary for maintaining clear vision. This is often due to unusually high pressure within the eye, referred to as intraocular pressure (IOP). However, glaucoma can also occur with normal IOP. The two main types of glaucoma are:

Open-Angle Glaucoma: This is the most common form of glaucoma. It develops slowly over time and is often asymptomatic until the disease has progressed significantly. Although the drainage angle between the cornea and iris stays open, the trabecular meshwork (the eye’s drainage system) gradually becomes less effective, causing an increase in intraocular pressure (IOP).
Angle-Closure Glaucoma: This type is less common but more acute. It happens when the iris pushes forward, narrowing or blocking the drainage angle between the cornea and the iris. As a result, fluid can't circulate through the eye, and pressure builds up rapidly. Angle-closure glaucoma is a severe eye condition that requires immediate treatment to prevent permanent vision loss.

Other types of glaucoma include normal-tension glaucoma, congenital glaucoma, and secondary glaucoma, which can result from other eye conditions or systemic diseases.

Why Regular Eye Exams Are Crucial

Early Detection is Key

One of the most challenging aspects of glaucoma is that it develops without any noticeable symptoms in its early stages. When symptoms such as peripheral vision loss or tunnel vision become apparent, major and irreversible damage to the optic nerve may have already occurred. Regular eye exams allow for the early detection of glaucoma, often before any vision loss has occurred. Early detection is crucial because it enables timely intervention, which can slow or halt the progression of the disease.

Comprehensive Eye Exams Can Detect Glaucoma

A comprehensive eye exam for glaucoma typically includes several tests:

Tonometry: This test measures the intraocular pressure (IOP). Elevated IOP is a major risk factor for glaucoma, although not all cases of glaucoma are associated with high IOP.
Ophthalmoscopy: This procedure enables the eye doctor to inspect the optic nerve for any signs of damage. The doctor will use a special instrument to look at the shape and colour of the optic nerve.
Perimetry (Visual Field Test): This test maps the field of vision to check for any areas of vision loss. It can detect central and peripheral vision loss, which is common in glaucoma.
Gonioscopy: This test examines the angle in the eye where the iris meets the cornea. It helps determine whether the angle is open or closed, which is essential for diagnosing the type of glaucoma.
Pachymetry: This test evaluates the corneal thickness. Corneal thickness can affect intraocular pressure (IOP) measurements, with thinner corneas potentially increasing the risk of glaucoma.

Regularly performing these tests can help identify glaucoma in its early stages, even before any symptoms develop.

Risk Factors for Glaucoma

Various factors can raise the likelihood of developing glaucoma, making regular eye exams even more critical for those at higher risk. These risk factors include:

Age: The risk of glaucoma increases significantly after the age of 60.
Family History: A family history of glaucoma increases the risk, suggesting a genetic predisposition.
Ethnicity: African Americans, Hispanics, and Asians are at higher risk for certain types of glaucoma.
Medical Conditions: Conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease can increase the risk of glaucoma.
Eye Conditions: High myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and previous eye injuries or surgeries can increase the risk.
Steroid Use: Prolonged use of corticosteroid medications, especially eye drops, may elevate the risk of developing glaucoma.

People with one or more risk factors should be especially careful about scheduling regular eye check-ups.

Preventing Vision Loss

The primary goal of regular eye exams for glaucoma detection is to prevent vision loss. While glaucoma-related vision loss is irreversible, early detection and treatment can significantly slow or halt the progression of the disease. Treatment options for glaucoma include:

Medications: Prescription eye drops are usually the initial treatment option. They help lower intraocular pressure (IOP) by either decreasing the production of aqueous humour (the fluid in the eye) or improving its drainage.
Laser Therapy: Laser trabeculoplasty is a procedure that enhances fluid drainage from the eye, helping to lower intraocular pressure (IOP).
Surgery: If medications and laser therapy are ineffective, surgical options like trabeculectomy or drainage device implantation may be considered.

Regular eye exams detect any changes in the condition early, allowing for timely adjustments in the treatment plan to prevent further vision loss.

Monitoring Disease Progression

For individuals already diagnosed with glaucoma, regular eye exams are necessary for monitoring the progression of the disease. Glaucoma is a long-term condition that needs continuous management. Regular eye exams help the doctor evaluate the effectiveness of the current treatment and make any needed adjustments. This may include changing medications, recommending additional treatments, or scheduling more frequent follow-up appointments.

How Often Should You Have an Eye Exam?

The frequency of eye exams depends on factors such as age, risk factors, and whether you have been diagnosed with glaucoma. The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) provides the following general guidelines:

Adults aged 40 to 54: Every 2 to 4 years.
Adults aged 55 to 64: Every 1 to 3 years.
Adults aged 65 and older: Every 1 to 2 years.

However, individuals with risk factors for glaucoma or those who have been diagnosed with the condition may need more frequent exams. Your eye doctor will suggest a schedule tailored to your individual needs.

Conclusion

Glaucoma is a severe eye condition that can lead to permanent vision loss if not detected and treated early. However, regular eye exams can detect it early, allowing for timely intervention and effective management. Regular eye exams are necessary for individuals who are at a higher risk of developing glaucoma, including those with a family history of the condition, certain ethnic backgrounds, and underlying medical conditions.

Regular eye exams help protect your vision and maintain your quality of life by allowing early detection and treatment of issues. If you haven't had an eye exam recently, now is the time to schedule one. Remember, early detection is key to preserving your sight when it comes to glaucoma.

At Max Hospital, Patparganj, we are committed to providing comprehensive eye care services, including glaucoma detection and management. Our skilled ophthalmologists use advanced diagnostic tools and cutting-edge treatments to deliver the best possible outcomes for our patients. Don't wait until it's too late—schedule your eye exam today and take the first step toward protecting your vision for years to come.