Early Diagnosis of Glaucoma: Why Regular Screening Is Essential
Glaucoma is a chronic eye disease that can lead to irreversible vision loss if not diagnosed early enough. Often asymptomatic in its early stages, it progresses slowly and can damage the optic nerve without the patient realizing it. This is why early diagnosis of glaucoma plays a crucial role in preserving vision.
Glaucoma, a silent eye disease
In its early stages, glaucoma generally causes neither pain nor a loss of central vision. Vision loss most often begins gradually at the periphery. The brain compensates for this damage for a long time, thereby delaying the onset of symptoms. By the time visual disturbances appear, the damage to the optic nerve is often already irreversible.
Why early diagnosis of glaucoma is critical
Damage caused by glaucoma cannot be reversed. However, when detected early, its progression can be significantly slowedthrough regular eye exams and appropriate treatments (eye drops, laser therapy, or surgery, depending on the situation).
Early diagnosis can thus help preserve functional vision and maintain quality of life in the long term.
At what age should glaucoma screening begin?
An eye exam is recommended starting at age 40, even if you have no vision problems. However, some people are at higher risk and may need to be screened earlier and more frequently, particularly if:
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a family history of glaucoma
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high intraocular pressure
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for myopia and severe hyperopia
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systemic diseases such as diabetes
Prevention at the heart of care
At the Swiss Eye Centre, glaucoma prevention and early diagnosis are an integral part of our approach to care. Regular checkups allow us to detect the disease before it causes irreversible vision loss and to adjust treatment over time.