Glaucoma is a critical eye condition that everyone should be aware of, especially if you have a family history of it. The risk of developing glaucoma can be almost 80% higher if a direct family member has the condition. This highlights the importance of regular eye examinations to protect your vision. 

Your comprehensive eye examination at Ashburton Eyecare is designed to detect glaucoma early. Glaucoma involves the gradual loss of nerve fibers in the eye. We measure the thickness of retinal nerve fibers—these are the tiny nerve cells that exit the eye at the optic nerve head. We also assess the ganglion cell layer, which consists of nerve fibers passing through central vision on their way to the optic nerve. 

Our exams include tracking these nerve fibers’ thickness over time. We use advanced imaging to compare the appearance of your optic nerve and examine the drainage angle between the iris and the cornea. Monitoring your eye pressure is another key component, as increased pressure is a major risk factor for glaucoma. 

Glaucoma progresses by damaging the optic nerve, which can cause a loss in your visual field over time. By reviewing your visual field regularly, we can detect changes early and help mitigate the impact of the disease. The good news is that advancements in treatment, such as micro-stents and selective laser trabeculotomy, offer effective alternatives to daily eye drops, making it easier to manage glaucoma.

Regular eye exams every two years are crucial, not just for detecting glaucoma, but also for monitoring other conditions like dry eye, cataracts, and macular degeneration. These exams ensure you have the correct prescription to optimize your vision. 

Don’t wait until you notice changes in your sight. Schedule an eye exam today and take proactive steps in maintaining your eye health. Early detection and modern treatment options make managing glaucoma more feasible than ever.