Optometrist Warehouse – ask our Chief Optometrist and Managing Director, Peter Larsen
Question: I am 42 years old and have been told that I should have a regular eye test because my mother has glaucoma. Is this correct?
“Yes, it is correct that you should have regular eye tests, especially since your mother has glaucoma. Having a close family member, like your mother, with glaucoma significantly increases your risk of developing the condition. Glaucoma can be hereditary, meaning it can run in families. Regular eye exams are crucial for early detection and management, particularly because glaucoma often progresses without noticeable symptoms until significant vision loss occurs.
At 42, you’re at an age where the risk of developing glaucoma begins to increase and having a family history makes it even more important to monitor your eye health closely. Early detection through regular eye tests can help prevent or minimise vision loss by allowing for timely treatment.
Given your family history of glaucoma, at Optometrist Warehouse, we would recommend that you have your eyes tested every 1 to 2 years. However, the frequency might vary depending on your specific risk factors and the results of your previous eye exams. Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
- Annual Eye Exams: If your optometrist finds any signs of increased intraocular pressure, optic nerve changes, or other early indicators of glaucoma, they may recommend annual eye exams to closely monitor your condition.
- Every 1-2 Years: If your eyes are healthy and your optometrist doesn’t find any immediate concerns, having an eye test every 1-2 years is usually sufficient. This allows for regular monitoring while also being proactive about catching any changes early.
- More Frequent Testing: If you experience any symptoms like blurred vision, eye pain, or halos around lights, or if your optometrist finds early signs of glaucoma, they may suggest more frequent testing—possibly every 6 months.
It’s important to follow the specific advice of your optometrist, as they will tailor the recommendation based on your eye health and family history. Regular eye exams are important in detecting glaucoma early and preserving your vision.”
Book an eye test at Optometrist Warehouse today.
