Examination
for Glaucoma
Because most people with glaucoma experience no noticeable symptoms, the eye
examination for glaucoma is the single most important tool in preventing vision loss from
the disease.
Glaucoma can be diagnosed only through a series of tests administered by trained
personnel and interpreted by an ophthalmologist.
An examination for glaucoma may include:
- History evaluation. The doctor or staff will ask questions about your medical and
personal history, as well as your family's medical history.
- Measurement of intraocular pressure (IOP) using an instrument called a tonometer
(see photo).
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The tonometer measures IOP using a pressure-sensitive
tip placed gently near or against the eye (applanation or Schiotz tonometry), or by
directing a brief puff of air gently onto the eye (air puff tonometry) . Short-acting
anesthetic drops may be used to numb the eye for this procedure. |
- Inspection of the drainage angle. The ophthalmologist places a special lens on
the eye in order to look at the area between the iris and the cornea to see if it is
blocked. This procedure is called gonioscopy.
- Ophthalmoscopy. The ophthalmologist uses drops to dilate (or widen) the pupil so
he or she look at the optic nerve using a special instrument called an ophthalmoscope.
This allows the ophthalmologist to evaluate any optic nerve damage that may have occurred.
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Ophthalmoscopy |
- Perimetry is used to test your visual field. The visual field is the
outside area that can be seen by the eye when fixed straight ahead. This test can tell the
ophthalmologist how much vision has been lost, even if you notices no impairment.
Some of these tests may not be necessary for every patient, but more tests may be
added, or repeated more frequently if glaucoma is suspected or if glaucoma damage
increases over time.
Because your eye may be dilated during your exam, you may want to bring sunglasses with
you to your appointment. Dilation can make your eyes extra sensitive to light for a short
time after your exam.
Everyone should have regular medical eye examinations, but those at risk for glaucoma
need to have more frequent exams.
We recommend you have an examination:
Every 3 to 5 years
- if you are age 39 or over.
Every 1 to 2 years
- if you are age 50 or over
- if a family member has glaucoma
- if you have had a serious eye injury in the past
- if you are taking steroid medication
Remember that early detection and treatment can prevent vision damage.
If you think you're at risk for glaucoma, and haven't had a medical eye examination in
the past two years, you can call the Eye Room at Manila Doctors Hospital 524-3011 loc
3720 for a referral to an ophthalmologist in your area. |