Glaucoma is indeed a lifelong condition that can’t be cured, but early detection and ongoing treatment can help prevent or slow the progression of vision loss. It’s often called the “silent thief of sight” because it can develop slowly and painlessly, with many people not realizing they have it until significant damage has occurred.
That’s why regular eye exams, especially for those at higher risk (e.g., older adults, people with a family history of glaucoma, or individuals with certain health conditions like diabetes), are crucial. Treatment often involves eye drops, oral medications, or even surgery, but its goal is always to manage intraocular pressure and preserve vision for as long as possible.
To diagnose glaucoma and monitor its progression, a series of tests are typically performed. Here are the main tests that are commonly conducted:
Measures intraocular pressure (IOP) to check for elevated pressure in the eye, a key indicator of glaucoma.
Examines the optic nerve for signs of damage, such as cupping, which is a common symptom of glaucoma.
Assesses your peripheral (side) vision to detect any loss of vision, which is common in glaucoma patients.
Examines the drainage angle of the eye to determine if it's open or closed, which helps diagnose different types of glaucoma.
Provides detailed images of the optic nerve and retina to assess any damage or thinning, which can indicate glaucoma.
Measures the thickness of the cornea, as a thinner cornea can be a risk factor for glaucoma.
Sometimes used to check for issues related to blood circulation in the eye, especially in cases of normal-tension glaucoma.
If you have a family history of Glaucoma, are diabetic, have been on any form of steroids, are experiencing intense throbbing pain in the eye along with redness or notice decrease in vision, it is a good time to schedule an appointment with an ophthalmologist to get your eyes checked for glaucoma. The doctors at Drishti Center For Advanced Eye Care will evaluate the health of your eyes and assess your glaucoma.
Your initial consultation will approximately take 2 hours if you do not require cross-consultation and up to 4 hours if you require cross-consultation. During your consultation, our doctors and counsellors will determine the best course of action for your visual needs, go over the risks and benefits of glaucoma treatment, and help you choose the best procedure that is suitable for preserving your visual needs. We suggest you bring a family member or friend with you to help you with your decision-making.
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