When Should People Have Their Eyes Checked For Glaucoma?

Ophthalmologists recommend that Black people without any symptoms of the condition have regular glaucoma exams every three to five years starting at age 29. Once they reach age 40, they should be examined every one to two years.

For members of other races, specialists recommend regular eye exams every three to five years starting at age 39. Once they reach age 50, they should be examined every one or two years.

You should also have a check-up every one to two years, regardless of your age, if:

• Someone in your family has glaucoma.

• If you have ever had a serious eye injury.

If you regularly take steroid medication, you should have your eye pressure checked even more frequently. Discuss this with your doctor.