Glaucoma is called the "silent thief of sight" for a reason: the most common form causes no pain, no redness, and no noticeable vision change until significant, permanent damage has already been done. It slowly destroys the optic nerve, usually starting with peripheral vision — the part you're least likely to notice losing.
Who's at risk
Adults over 60 (risk rises steadily with age)
Anyone with a family history of glaucoma
People with diabetes, high blood pressure, or previous eye injuries
Those with very high nearsightedness or long-term steroid use
How we detect it early in Bozeman
At Anderson Family Vision, glaucoma screening is built into every comprehensive exam. We measure your eye pressure, examine your optic nerve, and use digital retinal imaging to photograph and track the nerve over time — tiny year-over-year changes that would be invisible in a quick look become obvious when images are compared side by side.
The good news
Caught early, glaucoma is very manageable. Prescription drops (and in some cases laser treatment) can control eye pressure and preserve your remaining vision for life. The key word is early — which is exactly why annual exams matter even when your vision feels fine.
Over 60, or have glaucoma in the family? Call (406) 587-8333 to schedule a comprehensive exam with retinal imaging.
