Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight.” At Dr. Sam Dhaliwal & Associates, we believe that early detection and protection is key, and there’s no better time to make sure your eyes are healthy than your 40s. Regular glaucoma screening is vital after age 40, and it is important to know what modern testing technologies are involved, how insurance typically supports this process, and why annual eye exams truly matter.
Understanding the Risk Behind the Diagnosis
Like many other diseases, glaucoma doesn’t announce itself. Vision loss often begins at the periphery and progresses gently, making early symptoms easy to miss. Many Canadians suffer without a diagnosis, some unaware that they even have a problem until it is too late.
If you’re over 40, or just worried about the risks, regular screening is your most powerful tool. Age, family health history, other pre-existing health conditions, and personal lifestyle can all sometimes play a part in the development of glaucoma. This is all the more reason to be active and intentional with caring for your eyes.
How Glaucoma Screening Works Today
At Dr. Sam Dhaliwal & Associates, your screening is more than just a snapshot of your current eye health. We have a range of tools at our disposal to be able to serve and care for our patients in the best ways possible. Here are a few examples:
- Optomap Retinal Imaging: A grand panoramic view of the rear of your eye, this is a painless test that can easily detect hidden health issues.
- Corneal Topography: A surface scan of the front window of your eye, able to discover distortion or defect in the fine curve of the corneal of your eye.
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): A quick, non-invasive scan that gives a detailed, layered image of your retina and optic nerve. It can detect very early abnormalities even before vision loss begins.
Together, these tests provide a robust and layered understanding of your eye health, allowing us to catch subtle symptoms that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Does Insurance Cover Glaucoma Screening?
Most extended health benefits cover comprehensive eye exams that include glaucoma screening, especially for those over 40. Some portions may fall under provincial health coverage, but specifics vary, so it’s always a good idea to check with your provider.
Here’s what’s helpful to know:
- Extended health plans often cover full exams including OCT and visual field testing.
- If certain diagnostic add-ons aren’t covered, the clinic can provide a breakdown so that you are fully informed.
For more information and clarification, please visit the Government of Alberta’s benefits page.
Why Annual Exams Matter
Getting an eye exam done annually has many benefits. You are investing in early detection and prevention. Glaucoma damage can be irreversible, but by discovering and addressing problems early we are able to best treat them before they progress. Annual exams can also aid in tracking of diseases whose treatment might take more time. By measuring progression, we are able to construct a personal risk profile, allowing for more specialised and patient centred treatment options.
At Dr. Sam Dhaliwal & Associates, we are committed to a proactive, innovative, and supportive approach. Whether it be your first baseline test after 40 or your hundredth one, we believe that every exam counts toward better health and better living.
Book An Appointment Today
Getting screened for glaucoma is a small step that can make a lifelong difference. With state of the art tools, visual field testing, and thorough clinical exams, we can see and stop trouble before you notice it.
If it’s been awhile since your last exam, be sure to contact us about scheduling your glaucoma screening. Dr. Sam Dhaliwal & Associates have locations all over Edmonton and are here to guide you with warmth, helpfulness, and care. Because when it comes to preserving your vision, early action always matters.