Why You Should Never Skip Eye Pressure Checkups
You can’t feel high eye pressure.
You won’t notice it until damage starts.
That’s why regular checkups matter.
What Happens During an Eye Pressure Exam?
Your doctor measures intraocular pressure (IOP).
This pressure affects your optic nerve.
If it gets too high, it can lead to glaucoma.
At the clinic, you’ll likely get:
A tonometry test (quick and painless)
Eye dilation to check nerve health
A visual field test to map blind spots
These tests help your doctor detect changes early.
Why Timing Is Critical
Glaucoma often begins without symptoms.
You won’t feel pressure building.
Your vision stays normal—until it’s not.
Once nerve damage starts, you can’t reverse it.
That’s why early detection is key.
Routine checkups help you:
Track changes over time
Catch pressure spikes early
Start treatment before damage sets in
How Often Should You Get Checked?
It depends on your risk.
Low Risk:
Every 2–4 years if under 40
Every 1–2 years after 40
Higher Risk:
You may need yearly or more frequent visits if you:
Have a family history of glaucoma
Are over 60
Are of African, Asian, or Hispanic descent
Have diabetes or high blood pressure
Take corticosteroids regularly
Ask your doctor what’s best for you.
What If You Already Have Glaucoma?
Checkups aren’t optional.
They’re a core part of treatment.
Your eye pressure can shift without symptoms.
You’ll need monitoring to adjust treatment as needed.
Each visit helps your doctor:
Check if drops or medication still work
Monitor your optic nerve
Catch new changes before they worsen
Skipping appointments increases risk of damage—even if you feel fine.
What Else Can Be Found During a Checkup?
Routine exams can uncover:
Cataracts
Macular degeneration
Diabetic retinopathy
Retinal detachment
Eye health links closely with overall health.
Sometimes, your eyes show signs before other symptoms appear.
What to Expect at Your First Visit
Never had an eye pressure exam before?
Here’s what usually happens:
Your vision is tested (distance and close-up)
The doctor uses numbing drops
A tonometer measures eye pressure
Your pupils are dilated to examine the optic nerve
You might get a field of vision test
The full visit takes about 30–60 minutes.
Can You Prepare for an Eye Exam?
Yes. It helps to:
List all medications (including eye drops)
Note any symptoms or changes in vision
Bring your glasses or contacts
Ask about your family’s eye history
Also, bring a pair of sunglasses.
Dilated eyes can be sensitive to light afterward.
Common Questions
Do these tests hurt?
No. Tonometry and dilation are painless.
Can high eye pressure come and go?
Yes. It may spike at certain times or under stress. That’s why regular tracking matters.
Is it covered by insurance?
Most basic eye exams are covered, especially if you’re at risk or already diagnosed.
What Happens If You Delay?
Waiting too long can lead to:
Missed diagnosis
Unnoticed nerve damage
Limited treatment options later
Damage from glaucoma is permanent.
Don’t wait for symptoms. They come too late.
A Simple Habit, A Big Return
You schedule dental cleanings.
You get routine physicals.
Your eye checkup should be just as routine.
It takes less than an hour—but may protect your vision for life.
So ask yourself:
When was your last eye pressure test?
If you don’t remember, it’s time to book one.
