Glaucoma is often called the "silent thief of sight" because it typically has no pain or symptoms in early stages — yet it is the second leading cause of blindness worldwide. By the time vision changes are noticeable, significant and irreversible damage has already occurred. Early detection through regular eye exams is the only way to protect your vision.
At Avalon Eye Care in Vaughan, our optometrists screen for glaucoma as part of every comprehensive eye exam, and can perform more detailed glaucoma assessments for patients at elevated risk.
Elevated eye pressure is a key indicator of glaucoma. We measure IOP using non-contact tonometry — quick, comfortable, and non-invasive.
Glaucoma damages peripheral (side) vision first. Our visual field test maps your full visual field to detect early peripheral vision loss before it affects daily life.
High-resolution photos of your optic nerve and retina allow our optometrists to monitor for structural changes year over year — a critical tool for early detection.
After dilation, your optometrist examines the optic nerve head directly for signs of cupping or pallor — hallmarks of glaucomatous damage.
Glaucoma cannot be cured, but it can be managed successfully when caught early. Treatment options include prescription eye drops to lower IOP, laser therapy, and in advanced cases, surgery. Our optometrists in Vaughan co-manage glaucoma patients with ophthalmologists and can monitor your condition closely with regular follow-up appointments.
If you have a family history of glaucoma or any of the risk factors listed above, please do not wait for symptoms — book a glaucoma screening at Avalon Eye Care in Vaughan today.
Glaucoma screening is included in comprehensive eye exams. OHIP covers annual eye exams for children under 20 and adults 65 and over. For adults aged 20-64 without a diagnosed condition, exams are covered every 2 years or annually if medically necessary. Patients at high risk for glaucoma may qualify for more frequent OHIP-covered exams.
Most common forms of glaucoma have no early warning signs — which is exactly why it is called the silent thief of sight. Some patients with acute angle-closure glaucoma may experience sudden eye pain, halos around lights, blurred vision, nausea, or headache. If you experience any of these symptoms, call Avalon Eye Care in Vaughan immediately at 905-856-3937.
The Canadian Association of Optometrists recommends that adults 40 and over receive a comprehensive eye exam every 1-2 years. If you have risk factors for glaucoma (family history, elevated IOP, diabetes), annual testing is strongly recommended. Your optometrist will advise the appropriate frequency based on your individual risk profile.
Glaucoma cannot currently be cured, but it can be effectively managed to prevent further vision loss. Treatment with eye drops, laser procedures, or surgery can lower intraocular pressure and slow or stop progression. Vision already lost to glaucoma cannot be restored — which is why early detection is so important.
Vaughan & Woodbridge. OHIP & direct insurance billing.
Book Online 905-856-3937200 Whitmore Rd, Unit #15
Woodbridge (Vaughan), ON L4L 7K4
| Mon/Wed/Fri | 10AM–6PM |
| Tue/Thu | 11AM–7PM |
| Saturday | 10AM–4PM |