A patient came in for their regular check-up expecting a simple prescription update — instead, we discovered signs of glaucoma developing silently. With no symptoms yet, the patient had no idea. This story is far more common than people realize, and it's exactly why early detection through routine eye exams is so vital.
At Palermo Eye Care in Arlington Heights, we focus not only on helping you see better today — but on preserving your vision for years to come. Our exams are designed to spot problems early, often before you notice any changes in how you see.
Why Early Detection Is Essential for Eye Health
Many eye conditions, including glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and cataracts, begin without symptoms. That means you could have a developing issue and not know it until damage has already occurred.
Early detection through comprehensive eye exams gives you a major advantage: we can begin treatment or management while conditions are still in their earliest — and most treatable — stages. According to the CDC, over 61 million adults in the U.S. are at high risk for vision loss, but only half have visited an eye doctor in the past year. The best way to lower your risk is with proactive, preventive care.
What Conditions Can Be Detected Early in an Eye Exam?
Routine eye exams do far more than update your prescription. They provide a full assessment of your eye health, allowing us to catch early signs of conditions that could impact your vision permanently.
Here’s what we look for:
Glaucoma
This condition damages the optic nerve due to increased eye pressure and often progresses without noticeable symptoms. Early detection is key to slowing its effects.
Macular Degeneration
A leading cause of vision loss in older adults, this condition affects central vision. Regular screenings can detect changes before significant damage occurs.
Diabetic Retinopathy
In patients with diabetes, small blood vessels in the retina can become damaged. Routine exams help identify early changes before vision is impacted.
Cataracts
Though they often develop with age, early cataract formation can be detected and monitored so that you’re prepared when it's time for treatment.
How Palermo Eye Care Helps Catch Eye Problems Early
At Palermo Eye Care, we use advanced diagnostic tools and a personalized approach to spot the earliest signs of trouble. Even if your vision feels fine, we recommend regular exams based on your age, health history, and risk level.
Here’s what you can expect during your visit:
- Thorough vision testing to check how clearly you see at various distances.
- Detailed eye health evaluation using magnification and retinal imaging.
- Measurement of eye pressure to screen for glaucoma.
- Examination of blood vessels and retina to detect hidden signs of disease.
- Discussion of your lifestyle and risk factors so we can create a proactive care plan.
Our goal is to ensure that no early sign of disease goes unnoticed — and that you walk away feeling informed and empowered about your eye health.
Protect Your Vision with Early Detection – Book Your Eye Exam at Palermo Eye Care
Don’t wait for symptoms to tell you something is wrong. Regular eye exams are your best defense against hidden vision problems that could affect your future.
Schedule a comprehensive eye exam at Palermo Eye Care in Arlington Heights and take the first step toward lifelong healthy vision.