What happens when you get tested for glaucoma?

Many tests: To evaluate for the possibility of glaucoma, the first step is a complete eye examination. If there are signs of glaucoma or substantial risk, then other tests, such peripheral vision testing, optic nerve scanning, and evaluation of internal outflow structures are often done. Glaucoma is a slow, insidious disease that often requires years of observation before it can be firmly diagnosed.

Multiple tests: The most common screening test is to measure the intraocular pressure. If elevated the structure and function of the optic nerve is evaluated. Visual field testing evaluates function. Laser imaging of the nerve fiber evaluates structure. Optic nerve photographs allows monitoring for changes in structure over time. Corneal pachmetry measures corneal thickness since a thin cornea increases the risk.

Eye exam plus: A comprehensive eye exam including a history of systemic & ocular problems, family history, & type of present medications. Intraocular pressure is measured. Dilation of the pupils is performed to evaluate the optic nerve, retina & blood vessels. Corneal pachymetry, optical coherence tomography, & visual field testing are performed as necessary. The data gathered is analyzed; diagnosis & treatment.

Several tests: After the basic vision is taken, the ophthalmologist will measure the internal eye pressure with a tonometer; the thickness of the cornea is measure (pachymetry) and the structure of the disc is analyzed with the ophthalmoscope. With suspicion, a visual field test is usually done and the architecture of the disc measured with an OCT device. These are all painless, and benign but very useful.