Glaucoma Testing
Glaucoma Testing at Visionworks
Glaucoma testing is a crucial aspect of ensuring that your eyes are healthy. At Visionworks, tests for glaucoma are included with your comprehensive eye exam. This eye pressure test can often be given in a pre-test area by a trained technician.
What to Expect from Glaucoma Testing at Visionworks
Glaucoma occurs when excess fluid builds up in the eye, putting pressure on and eventually damaging the optic nerve. Glaucoma testing is a standard eye exam step because the condition is common and early detection is important for preserving vision.
Types of Glaucoma Testing
There are various tests for glaucoma that an optometrist can perform:
Eye Pressure Test
There are various methods of testing your eye pressure. A quick, painless, option we use during pretesting is called the non-contact tonometer. This test involves directing a small puff of air at your eyes for a fraction of a second. This test measures the pressure in your eyes and can be a valuable tool for detecting glaucoma.
Visual Field Testing
Visual field testing for glaucoma assesses your peripheral vision by flashing lights on the sides of your eyes and having you press a button when you can see them. With this test, the eye doctor can determine if there is any vision loss and gain diagnostic insights about how to stop or slow its progression.
Eye dilation
A dilated eye exam may also be performed to check for damage to the optic nerve. This test involves an optometrist applying special drops to your eyes that make it possible to examine the backs of your eyes.
Digital retinal imaging
Retinal imaging provides a detailed view of the back of your eye—far beyond what can be seen during a standard exam. This advanced technology captures a high-resolution image of your retina, optic nerve, and surrounding structures in just seconds. Because glaucoma often damages the optic nerve before noticeable vision changes occur, Retinal imaging helps your optometrist detect early warning signs long before symptoms appear. This noninvasive test is quick, comfortable, and especially valuable for patients at higher risk of glaucoma, including those with a family history, high eye pressure, or age-related risk factors.
Types of Glaucoma Treatment
While there is no cure for glaucoma, your optometrist can offer treatment options intended to manage symptoms and protect your vision. After a glaucoma diagnosis, your optometrist can also monitor any changes at your annual eye exam or recommend specialized treatment when necessary.
Common glaucoma treatment options include prescription eye drops and oral medications that help reduce eye pressure. Treating this disease focuses on reducing damage to the optic nerve, which cannot be repaired or reversed. Lifestyle changes, such as maintaining healthy blood pressure and weight and stopping smoking, may also reduce the risk of developing glaucoma.
FAQs About Glaucoma Testing
Can You Drive After a Glaucoma Test?
How Long Does a Glaucoma Test Take?
Do Optometrists Test for Glaucoma?
Do They Dilate Your Eyes for a Glaucoma Test?
How Often Should You Be Tested for Glaucoma?
