At What Age Should You Get Tested for Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight.” It can quietly damage the optic nerve, leading to vision loss or blindness if not caught early. Understanding the glaucoma screening age that’s right for you can make all the difference in preserving your vision.

What Is Glaucoma?

• A group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, usually due to high pressure inside the eye.
• Most common form: primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), which progresses slowly and without obvious symptoms.
• If untreated, glaucoma can cause permanent vision loss, starting with peripheral (side) vision.

Why Early Detection Matters

• Vision loss from glaucoma is irreversible, but early treatment can slow or stop its progression.
• Most people don’t notice mild vision changes; by the time symptoms appear, damage may be advanced.
• Regular screening is the best way to catch glaucoma before you lose sight.

When to Start Screening: General Guidelines

Baseline Examination at Age 40

• The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends a comprehensive eye exam—including glaucoma screening—around your 40th birthday.
• Why 40? This is when early structural changes in the optic nerve and drainage system often begin.

Follow-Up Intervals by Age Group

Once you have a baseline exam at age 40, eye care professionals generally suggest:

• Ages 40–54: every 2–4 years
• Ages 55–64: every 1–3 years
• Ages 65 and older: every 1–2 years

These intervals may vary based on your individual risk profile.

Who’s at Higher Risk?

If you fall into any of these categories, you may need to start screening before age 40 or have more frequent exams:

• Family history of glaucoma (parent or sibling)
• African, Hispanic or Asian descent (higher incidence in these groups)
• History of elevated eye pressure (ocular hypertension)
• Thin central cornea
• Long-term use of corticosteroid medications
• Medical conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure

Evidence Behind the Recommendations

• U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (Moyer VA, 2013) found insufficient evidence to recommend routine screening of low-risk adults, but agreed that those with risk factors benefit from regular exams.
• Australian study (Mitchell et al., 1996) showed glaucoma prevalence rises sharply after age 40, nearly doubling every decade thereafter.
• Additional ophthalmology guidelines stress personalized screening plans based on risk factors, family history and coexisting eye conditions.

What Happens During a Glaucoma Screening?

A comprehensive eye exam for glaucoma typically includes:

• Tonometry: measures your intraocular pressure (IOP)
• Ophthalmoscopy: examines the optic nerve head for damage
• Gonioscopy: inspects the drainage angle of the eye
• Visual field testing: checks for peripheral vision loss
• Pachymetry: measures corneal thickness

These tests are painless and usually take under 30 minutes.

Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

Early glaucoma often shows no symptoms, but advanced stages can bring:

• Loss of peripheral (side) vision
• Tunnel vision in end stages
• Sudden eye pain, headache, blurred vision (in acute angle-closure glaucoma)
• Halos around lights

Because glaucoma can advance unnoticed, don’t wait for symptoms—stick to recommended glaucoma screening age guidelines.

How to Prepare for Your Exam

• Bring any prior eye records or images.
• List all medications—including over-the-counter and supplements.
• Share your full family eye health history.
• Arrange for someone to drive you home if your pupils are dilated.

Free Online Symptom Check

If you’re unsure whether you should schedule an exam now, you might consider doing a free, online symptom check for glaucoma. While this tool doesn’t replace a professional evaluation, it can help you decide if you need to see an eye care provider promptly.

Talking to Your Doctor

• Discuss your personal glaucoma screening age plan based on your risk factors.
• If you experience any sudden vision changes, eye pain or halos around lights, seek immediate medical attention.
• Never delay seeing a professional for anything that could be life-threatening or serious.

Key Takeaways

• Start baseline glaucoma screening at age 40 if you’re at average risk.
• Follow up exams every 1–4 years, with shorter intervals as you grow older.
• High-risk individuals may need earlier and more frequent screenings.
• Early detection through regular exams is crucial—glaucoma damage can’t be reversed.
• Use a free online symptom check for guidance, but always confirm with a doctor.

Your eye health matters. Speak to a doctor about your screening schedule and any concerns you have. Regular exams are your best defense against the silent progression of glaucoma.