Glaucoma is a leading cause of vision loss, but its effects are often invisible until the damage is done. Because this eye disease develops gradually and usually without pain, many people remain unaware they have it until their vision is already compromised. At Giannotti Vision Care, we believe that understanding how glaucoma works and the importance of routine testing is key to safeguarding your sight for the future.

What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma refers to a set of eye conditions that typically cause increased pressure inside the eye, known as intraocular pressure. Over time, this pressure can damage the optic nerve, which is responsible for sending visual information from your eye to your brain. If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to permanent vision loss or even blindness.
 

How Glaucoma Affects Your Vision

One of the most challenging aspects of glaucoma is its subtle onset. In the early stages, there are usually no obvious symptoms. Vision changes are often so gradual that many people do not notice anything wrong until the disease has progressed.

• Peripheral Vision Loss: Glaucoma most commonly affects peripheral (side) vision first. You might find it harder to see objects out of the corners of your eyes, which can make driving or navigating crowded spaces more difficult.
• Tunnel Vision: As the condition advances, vision may narrow further, resulting in tunnel vision.
• Eventual Central Vision Loss: Without treatment, glaucoma can ultimately affect central vision, severely impacting your quality of life.

Why Early Testing Is So Important

Because glaucoma develops slowly and painlessly, regular eye exams are the only way to detect it early. Early detection through comprehensive eye exams allows for timely treatment, which can slow or even stop the progression of the disease.

Glaucoma testing may include several different procedures. Tonometry measures the pressure inside your eye, while ophthalmoscopy allows your eye doctor to examine the optic nerve for any signs of damage. Visual field testing is used to assess your peripheral vision, which is often the first area affected by glaucoma. Additionally, optical coherence tomography (OCT) provides detailed images of the optic nerve and retina to help identify any changes.
 

If you have risk factors such as a family history of glaucoma, being over the age of 40, having high eye pressure, or certain medical conditions like diabetes, you should be especially diligent about scheduling regular eye exams. Early and consistent testing is the best way to protect your vision.
 

Safeguard Your Vision at Giannotti Vision

Glaucoma is a leading cause of preventable blindness, but early detection and treatment make all the difference. Since symptoms are rare until advanced stages, regular eye exams are the best way to protect your sight.

Schedule your next eye exam with Giannotti Vision Care to prioritize your eye health and get tested for glaucoma. Visit our office in Scotts Valley, California, or call (831) 438-4482 to book an appointment today.