January marks Glaucoma Awareness Month, a reminder that early detection is the best tool in preventing vision loss. At Dr. Chinn's Vision Care in San Diego, we provide glaucoma screenings to identify risk before damage begins.
Why Glaucoma Awareness Matters in January
Glaucoma is known as the “silent thief of sight” because most people do not notice any vision problems until irreversible damage has occurred. During Glaucoma Awareness Month, we encourage patients in San Diego to understand their risk factors and schedule routine eye exams that include glaucoma testing.
Glaucoma refers to a group of conditions that damage the optic nerve, often due to increased pressure inside the eye. Without proper care, this can lead to peripheral vision loss that eventually impacts central vision. By the time symptoms become noticeable, much of the damage is permanent. That’s why awareness and prevention matter.
At Dr. Chinn's Vision Care, we use advanced diagnostic tools to detect subtle changes in your eye pressure and optic nerve — well before your vision is affected.
Who Is Most at Risk for Glaucoma?
While glaucoma can affect anyone, some people are at much higher risk than others. You may be more likely to develop glaucoma if you:
- Are over the age of 60
- Have a family history of glaucoma
- Are African American and over the age of 40
- Are of Hispanic, Latino, or Asian descent
- Have diabetes or high blood pressure
- Are extremely nearsighted
- Take steroid medications
- Have had a serious eye injury, even years ago
It is especially important for San Diego residents in these risk categories to stay consistent with annual eye exams. Early testing makes a real difference in preserving vision and avoiding the complications of advanced glaucoma.
How Glaucoma is Diagnosed at Dr. Chinn's Vision Care
At Dr. Chinn's Vision Care in North Park, our glaucoma exams include multiple tests that provide a clear picture of your optic nerve health. These tests are non-invasive and comfortable, yet they give our optometrists detailed information that is critical for early diagnosis. We may perform:
- Tonometry to measure eye pressure
- Visual field testing to detect blind spots in your peripheral vision
- Optic nerve imaging using OCT scans to spot structural changes
- Pachymetry to measure corneal thickness, which can affect pressure readings
Because glaucoma can develop even when eye pressure is normal, these tests are used together to give a more complete diagnosis. Our goal is always to catch changes early, before symptoms appear.
Glaucoma Treatment Options in San Diego
If testing shows signs of glaucoma, we’ll create a treatment plan based on your specific diagnosis. Dr. Jenn Chinn is a Glaucoma Certified Optometric Physician, which means you’ll receive expert care from someone who specializes in this condition. Common treatment options include:
- Prescription eye drops to lower eye pressure
- Oral medications when needed for additional support
- Laser treatment to help fluid drain properly from the eye
- Surgical referrals for more advanced or urgent cases
Most people with glaucoma can manage their condition with eye drops and regular check-ins. The key is catching it early and staying on top of treatment — something our San Diego team helps with every step of the way.
Schedule Your Glaucoma Screening in San Diego
Glaucoma Awareness Month is a chance to take charge of your eye health. If it’s been more than a year since your last exam, or if you’re in a high-risk group, now is the time to book your eye care appointment.
Book your glaucoma screening with Dr. Chinn's Vision Care in San Diego. Early testing could save your sight.