Glaucoma screening helps catch signs of eye problems before symptoms show up. For many people in Cypress, TX, it’s not always clear when to schedule this type of testing. Should it wait until you notice a change in your vision? Or does age or family history play a role? These are common questions, and understanding when to act can make all the difference. Knowing the right time to schedule a glaucoma screening can help protect your vision and keep your eyes healthier over time.
Age and Risk Factors That Signal Time for Screening
As we get older, the chances of developing glaucoma go up. That’s why regular screenings are often recommended starting around age 40. These exams help us track your eye pressure and catch any changes early.
Still, age is just part of the picture. Some people may need to begin glaucoma screening earlier because of other risk factors, such as:
• A family history of glaucoma
• Health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure
• Long-term use of steroid medications
• Past injuries or trauma to the eye
• Strong nearsightedness or farsightedness
Some groups, like African American, Hispanic, or Asian individuals, are more likely to develop glaucoma. These patients may benefit from earlier testing and more frequent follow-ups.
At Cypress Family Eyecare, Dr. Oevermann is a certified Therapeutic Optometrist and Glaucoma Specialist, and the practice uses advanced technology to help detect the earliest signs of glaucoma during your screening.
Even if you don’t have symptoms, screenings help us create a baseline. If you notice warning signs like halos around lights, slow loss of side vision, or frequent headaches, it’s worth checking in sooner. Waiting until symptoms appear can lead to more serious problems since glaucoma often develops without pain.
Creating Your Personal Screening Schedule
Not everyone needs eye exams at the same pace. For most adults, a glaucoma check should be part of a comprehensive eye exam every one to two years. If you have any of the risk factors mentioned earlier, your doctor may recommend visits every six months.
We build your schedule based on personal factors like:
• Your age
• Any current health conditions
• Whether glaucoma runs in your family
• Prescription strength or changes in vision
Many people in Cypress, Texas, find that the winter months are a good time to schedule exams. With fewer outdoor demands and less packed schedules, it can be easier to fit in an appointment. We recommend keeping a record of your last visit so nothing slips through the cracks.
Glaucoma screenings are painless and fairly quick. Most include a pressure check and a close look at the optic nerve. If we spot anything unusual, we can follow up with more tests. The goal is to catch signs early before they begin to affect your vision.
Keeping up with regular screenings helps us watch for changes over time. These appointments build a clearer picture and make it easier to see when something starts to shift, even in small ways.
Protecting Your Vision Through Regular Care
Knowing when to get a glaucoma screening gives you more control over your long-term eye health. It’s one of the easiest steps you can take to stay ahead of problems that don’t always give you clear warning signs.
When your testing schedule is based on your lifestyle and risk level, it’s easier to stay consistent. Screenings give us the information we need to support your vision and help keep your eyes in good shape for the future.
At Cypress Family Eyecare, we’re here to help you stay ahead of any changes in your eye health with gentle testing and personalized attention. When it’s been a while since your last glaucoma screening or you’ve noticed any risk factors, this season is a great time to check in. Call our office in Cypress, TX to set up an appointment that fits your schedule.