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Eye Tests After 40: OCT, Eye Pressure and Retina Checks

Written by the Mungale Eye Hospital team

Medically reviewed by Dr. Sachin Mungale, MBBS, MS (Ophthalmology) · Fellowship in Glaucoma, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad · Gujarat Medical Council Reg. No. G-12281 and Dr. Meeta Mungale, MBBS, MS (Ophthalmology), DNB · Fellowship in Cornea & Anterior Segment, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad · Gujarat Medical Council Reg. No. G-39262 · Reviewed on 21 October 2026

Published 21 October 2026

Part of our guide: Eye Check-Up After 40: Tests, Frequency & Warning Signs

Illustration: middle-aged Indian man placing his chin on an OCT scanner while a technician operates it.

After 40, the risk of several eye conditions rises. Some are silent, so the right tests matter even when vision seems fine.

Why Tests Change After 40

  • Reading vision starts to decline (presbyopia)
  • Glaucoma risk rises with age
  • Cataract can begin to form
  • Diabetes and high blood pressure affect the retina
  • Macular changes become more common later in life
  • Key Tests

    Eye pressure check

    High pressure is a risk factor for glaucoma, which can damage the optic nerve without symptoms.

    Dilated retina examination

    Lets the doctor check the retina, macula and optic nerve for disease.

    OCT scan

    A painless scan that makes detailed cross-sections of the retina and optic nerve.

    Visual field test

    Detects loss of side vision, often an early sign of glaucoma.

    Refraction

    Finds the right reading and distance glasses.

    How Often?

    Every one to two years is a common guide, and yearly with diabetes, glaucoma family history or other risks. Your doctor will advise.

    Symptoms to Report

  • Difficulty reading at close range
  • Glare, halos or poor night vision
  • Flashes or new floaters
  • Patchy vision
  • Key Takeaways

  • Risks rise after 40.
  • Eye pressure and retina checks are key.
  • OCT adds detail when needed.
  • Many conditions are silent early.
  • Regular visits protect vision.
  • Final Thoughts

    A few simple tests can protect your eyesight for the years ahead. For a thorough evaluation, you can consult Dr. Meeta Mungale at Mungale Eye Hospital in Vadodara.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Yes. It uses light, not radiation, and is painless.

    No. It needs eye pressure and optic nerve checks.

    Not always. Your doctor decides based on your risk.

    Glaucoma can still occur with normal pressure, so the nerve is also examined.

    OCT and retina examination can pick up early changes.

    Yes. Many problems begin silently.

    Sources and further reading

  • AAO: Eye exams 101
  • NEI: Get a dilated eye exam
  • Reviewed by

    MBBS, MS (Ophthalmology) · Fellowship in Glaucoma, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad

    Gujarat Medical Council Reg. No. G-12281

    MBBS, MS (Ophthalmology), DNB · Fellowship in Cornea & Anterior Segment, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad

    Gujarat Medical Council Reg. No. G-39262

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