Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of irreversible vision loss, yet many people do not realize they have it until damage has already occurred. Often developing without pain or noticeable symptoms, glaucoma can quietly affect vision over time.
At Allied Vision Plainsboro, our optometrists focus on early detection and ongoing care to help patients in Central New Jersey protect their eyesight. Understanding glaucoma and scheduling regular eye exams are the most effective steps you can take to safeguard your vision.
What Is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma refers to a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, which sends visual information from the eye to the brain. This damage is commonly associated with increased pressure inside the eye, known as intraocular pressure.
As glaucoma progresses, it typically affects peripheral or side vision first. Because this change happens gradually, many people remain unaware of the condition until vision loss becomes noticeable. Unfortunately, vision lost to glaucoma cannot be restored, which makes early diagnosis essential.
Why Glaucoma Is Often Hard to Detect
The most common type of glaucoma, open-angle glaucoma, usually causes no discomfort or early warning signs. Vision may appear normal for years while the optic nerve slowly becomes damaged.
This is why glaucoma is often referred to as the “silent thief of sight.” Regular comprehensive eye exams are the only reliable way to detect glaucoma before permanent vision loss occurs.
Who Is at Risk for Glaucoma?
While anyone can develop glaucoma, certain factors increase risk. You may be more likely to develop glaucoma if you:
- Are over the age of 60
- Have a family history of glaucoma
- Are African American over age 40
- Are of Hispanic or Asian descent
- Have diabetes or high blood pressure
- Are highly nearsighted
- Use steroid medications long term
- Have experienced a serious eye injury
Patients with one or more of these risk factors should prioritize regular glaucoma testing as part of their annual eye care.
Types of Glaucoma Explained
Understanding the different forms of glaucoma helps explain why testing and treatment plans vary.
Open-Angle Glaucoma
The most common type. It progresses slowly without pain or early symptoms and primarily affects peripheral vision.
Angle-Closure Glaucoma
A sudden rise in eye pressure that may cause eye pain, blurred vision, halos around lights, headache, or nausea. This is a medical emergency and requires immediate care.
Normal-Tension Glaucoma
Optic nerve damage occurs despite normal eye pressure. Reduced blood flow to the optic nerve may play a role.
Secondary Glaucoma
Develops as a result of another condition, such as eye injury, inflammation, diabetes, or previous eye surgery.
How Glaucoma Is Diagnosed
During a comprehensive eye exam at Allied Vision Plainsboro, glaucoma testing includes several important evaluations, not just a pressure check. These may include:
- Measurement of intraocular pressure
- Examination of the optic nerve
- Visual field testing to assess peripheral vision
- Corneal thickness measurement
- Advanced imaging such as OCT scans
Because glaucoma can exist even when eye pressure is normal, combining these tests provides a clearer picture of optic nerve health. You can learn more about this process on our Comprehensive Eye Exam and Eye Disease Management pages.
Glaucoma Treatment Options
While glaucoma cannot be cured, early treatment can slow or stop progression and preserve remaining vision.
Treatment plans may include:
- Prescription eye drops to lower eye pressure
- Oral medications in select cases
- Laser procedures to improve fluid drainage
- Surgical options for advanced glaucoma
Consistent treatment and follow-up care are critical. Skipping medications or delaying visits can allow the disease to progress silently.
Why Early Eye Exams Matter in
Many patients delay eye exams because their vision seems fine. However, glaucoma does not always affect clarity right away. Regular eye exams allow your optometrist to detect subtle changes long before vision is impacted.
At Allied Vision Plainsboro, we take a proactive approach to eye health, combining advanced diagnostics with personalized care. Our goal is to help patients maintain clear vision and confidence throughout every stage of life.
When Should You Schedule a Glaucoma Screening?
Adults over 40 should have routine eye exams every year or as recommended by their optometrist. Patients with higher risk factors may need more frequent monitoring.
If it has been more than a year since your last eye exam, or if glaucoma runs in your family, now is the right time to schedule a visit.
Protect Your Vision With Proactive Glaucoma Care
Glaucoma does not have to lead to vision loss. With early detection, proper treatment, and ongoing care, many patients preserve functional vision for life.
If you live in or the surrounding Central New Jersey area, schedule a comprehensive eye exam at Allied Vision Plainsboro. Taking action now can help protect your eyesight for years to come.