How do you test for glaucoma?
Glaucoma is the generalized name for a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve of the eye, preventing the eye from sending accurate visual information to the brain.
Increased pressure inside the eye is often a key indicator of glaucoma, though not exclusively so. Only a comprehensive eye exam can reveal whether or not you have glaucoma. Dr. Rippley, Dr. Nguyen and Dr. Porter can use a number of tests for eye pressure, but will, by default, check for signs of glaucoma as part of a detailed examination of the retina—the light sensitive area at the back of the eye responsible for processing images.
If there is any suspicion for glaucoma, additional tests can help aid the diagnosis. Since glaucoma initially affects your peripheral vision, we may have you perform a visual field test. This will inform us whether or not there are any areas of your vision that have been affected. Also, an OCT test allows us to take a more detailed look at the nerve for any damage from glaucoma than with an Optomap image or dilation alone. Both of these tests will also help monitor progression, and allow us to better assess whether more aggressive treatment may be required.
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Glaucoma can cause slight to severe vision loss, and is often discovered only after the disease is present—that’s why glaucoma testing is so important.
Special thanks to the EyeGlass Guide for informational material that aided in the creation of this website. Visit the EyeGlass Guide today!