Early Detection

There are seldom any warning signs or symptoms during the early stages of serious eye diseases like glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. However, it is in the early stages of disease that treatments can most effectively prevent blindness. The only way to catch many eye diseases early is through routine screening.



The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that all Americans have a baseline eye exam with an ophthalmologist – an eye medical doctor or surgeon with the skill and experience to diagnose and treat the full range of eye diseases and disorders – no later than age 40. At that time, the ophthalmologist will determine how frequently a patient needs follow-up exams, based on the individual patient's eye health needs. By age 65, the Academy recommends eye exams yearly, or as directed by an ophthalmologist.