March is Save Your Vision Month, a timely reminder to prioritize your eye health—especially for those at risk of glaucoma, a leading cause of blindness worldwide. Glaucoma is often called the "silent thief of sight" because it can develop with no noticeable symptoms until significant vision loss has already occurred. However, early detection through comprehensive eye exams can make all the difference in protecting your vision for years to come.

Why Early Detection Matters

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, often due to increased intraocular pressure (IOP). Over time, this damage can lead to peripheral vision loss, eventually progressing to complete blindness if left untreated.

Glaucoma can be managed—if caught early. At Sacramento Eye Consultants, we use advanced diagnostic tools to monitor for the earliest signs of glaucoma, often before you experience symptoms.

Are You at Risk?

While anyone can develop glaucoma, certain factors increase your risk:

•          Being over 60 (even more so for Hispanic, African American, and Asian individuals)

•          A family history of glaucoma

•          Diabetes, hypertension, or other chronic conditions

•          Long-term use of steroid medications

•          Previous eye injuries

If any of these apply to you, it’s time to schedule an eye exam. Even if you don’t notice vision changes, glaucoma can still be developing.

What Happens During a Glaucoma Screening?

During a glaucoma screening at Sacramento Eye Consultants, a comprehensive eye exam is conducted to assess eye health beyond just updating a glasses prescription. Several specialized tests help detect early signs of glaucoma, including tonometry, which measures intraocular pressure, and optical coherence tomography (OCT), which scans the optic nerve for early damage. Visual field testing is performed to identify any blind spots in a patient’s vision, while gonioscopy allows doctors to examine the drainage angle of the eye, ensuring proper fluid outflow. These tests work together to provide a thorough evaluation of a patient’s risk for glaucoma.

Glaucoma Treatment

Glaucoma treatment focuses on lowering intraocular pressure to prevent further optic nerve damage and vision loss. Depending on the severity and type of glaucoma, treatment options may include prescription eye drops, which help reduce fluid production or improve drainage, and oral medications to further control pressure.

In cases where medications are not sufficient, laser procedures such as selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) or laser peripheral iridotomy (LPI) may be recommended to enhance fluid drainage. For more advanced cases, surgical options like trabeculectomy or drainage implants can create new pathways for fluid outflow.

Protect Your Vision—Schedule an Exam Today

If you’re a senior living in Sacramento or Lincoln, chances are you’re enjoying the golden years—whether it’s staying active in local parks, attending community events, or spending time with family. Vision loss from glaucoma can impact your independence and quality of life. Many people believe they only need an eye check when something feels “off,” but with glaucoma, waiting for symptoms means it may already be too late.

This Save Your Vision Month, take action for your eye health. If you’re over 60, have a family history of glaucoma, schedule your comprehensive eye exam at Sacramento Eye Consultants today. Contact our office in Sacramento, Folosom, or Lincoln, California, by calling (916) 915-0300 to book an appointment.