Can you remember the last time you scheduled an eye exam to screen for glaucoma? If the answer is no, you’re likely due for a visit to an ophthalmologist. At our locations in Jackson Heights, Queens, and throughout New York, we specialize in keeping your eyes healthy. Routine exams and screenings are some of the most important ways we do so.
If you’ve been putting off scheduling an eye exam, here are a few reasons to use the new year as motivation to put it on your calendar.
1. Glaucoma is Known as the “Silent Thief of Sight.”
Glaucoma is notorious for causing permanent eye damage before symptoms are present. If you have undetected glaucoma and are not treating it, you may be gradually losing your peripheral vision without realizing it.
An eye doctor is often the first to catch glaucoma, and the earlier it’s treated, the better. Learn more about how glaucoma impairs vision and how you can catch it early in this related blog post.
2. Your Glaucoma Risk Increases With Age
As you mark the passing of another year, take a moment to consider the last time you visited an ophthalmologist. Was it last year? The year before?
To stay on top of glaucoma detection, the Glaucoma Research Foundation recommends exams:
- Before age 40: Every 2 to 4 years
- From age 40 to age 54: Every 1 to 3 years
- From age 55 to 64: Every 1 to 2 years
- After age 65: Every 6 to 12 months
If you’re not currently scheduling appointments on that timeline, make this the year you start.
3. Glaucoma is a Leading Cause of Blindness, but Early Treatment Lessens Vision Loss
Losing vision to glaucoma isn’t inevitable. By getting the right treatment, you can manage your condition and delay or diminish damage to your eyes, especially when you start early. In some cases, all it takes is prescription eye drops. In others, your doctor may recommend oral medication or eye surgery to drain excess fluid and relieve pressure on your eyes.
4. Your Ophthalmologist May Notice Other Conditions You Weren’t Aware of
Eye doctors are often the first to spot signs of high blood pressure, diabetes, and other potentially dangerous conditions. Even if you’re not sure whether you need glaucoma treatment, it’s worth it to check in regularly with your eye doctor for this reason. Just a quick, routine exam will give you peace of mind, not just about your eye health but other aspects of your health as well.
5. Start The Year With Clear Vision and a Clear Conscience
If you have been putting off your regular eye exam, the new year is the perfect time to schedule it. Begin the year knowing you are on top of your eye health, whether that includes getting the treatment you need or stepping out of the office with a clean bill of health.
If you would like to learn more about glaucoma prevention from an ophthalmologist in Jackson Heights or Queens, please contact us online or call 866-599-8774.
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