More than 3 million Americans live with glaucoma, making it one of the most dangerous eye diseases currently facing our country. Left unchecked, its results can be devastating, often leading to permanent blindness. However, receiving a glaucoma diagnosis does not have to mean a permanent loss of vision. To catch glaucoma before it leads to permanent damage, it is important to visit a Columbia eye center for regular eye checks.  Today, we will discuss who needs glaucoma checks and why.
 
What Is Glaucoma and Glaucoma Testing?
Glaucoma occurs when fluid accumulates in the front of your eye, creating pressure which, if left untreated, will damage the optic nerve. This impedes the eye’s ability to send signals to your brain, resulting in vision loss or blindness.
 
To check for glaucoma, your Columbia eye center will run a variety of tests. Your ophthalmologist will numb your eyes then check for things like increased eye pressure, angle of the cornea, loss of peripheral vision, and visible damage to the optic nerve. These tests are quick, non-invasive, and highly effective at spotting glaucoma warning signs. Contact an ophthalmologist in Columbia, SC, to schedule routine eye tests.
 
Who Needs Glaucoma Testing?
Some people are at a much higher risk for glaucoma than others, so it is especially vital that you receive regular glaucoma checkups with a Columbia eye center if you belong to any of the following high-risk categories:
 

• If you have a family history of glaucoma
• If you are 60 years of age or older
• If you are over 60 and of Hispanic, African American, or Asian descent.

 
Why Is Glaucoma Testing Important?
Many symptoms of glaucoma do not manifest until after irreversible damage has already been done to the optic nerve. But with regular checks, your ophthalmologist can spot early glaucoma before you notice symptoms.
 
If you do receive an early glaucoma diagnosis, this condition is very treatable. Columbia glaucoma treatment services may range from pills and eyedrops to surgical procedures and drainage implants. With proper care and routine checkups, you can protect yourself from losing your vision to glaucoma.