Glaucoma is an eye condition that affects the optic nerve. The nerve connecting the eyes to the brain is damaged due to fluid buildup that increases pressure in the eye. If not detected and treated early, the disease can cause vision loss. 

Glaucoma can affect individuals of any age but is most common among seniors in their 70s and 80s. Here is what you need to know about the diagnosis and testing for glaucoma. 

Causes of Glaucoma   

Glaucoma may occur due to various reasons. The most common cause is pressure buildup in the eye due to fluid failing to drain properly. The increased pressure damages the optic nerve, which connects the eye to the brain. 

It is unclear why this happens, but risk factors include age, underlying medical conditions, ethnicity, and genetics. Regular eye exams at Clarity Vision are vital for detecting glaucoma as early as possible. 

Symptoms of Glaucoma

The early stages of glaucoma do not present symptoms. The disease develops gradually, affecting the peripheral vision first. Most people do not realize that they have the condition until the later stages. The disease is usually detectable during routine eye exams. 

You may experience blurred vision and rainbow-colored halos around lights as it progresses. In rare cases, glaucoma can occur suddenly, causing symptoms such as intense eye pain, red eyes, nausea, headaches, and vomiting. Getting sudden symptoms is a medical emergency. 

Types of Glaucoma 

There are different types of glaucoma. They include:

 

• Open-angle glaucoma - It develops gradually over a period
   

• Acute angle closure glaucoma - It is less prevalent and usually develops quickly
   

• Secondary glaucoma - Results from inflammation or an underlying condition
   

• Congenital or childhood glaucoma – A rare type that affects young children

How to Diagnose Glaucoma   

If during an eye exam, the eye specialist suspects that you may have glaucoma, several tests are conducted. The tests help diagnose and monitor the disease. They include:

 

• An eye pressure test to measure the pressure in the eye
   

• Gonioscopy to examine the front part of the eye where fluid should drain
   

• Optic nerve assessment to check if the nerve is healthy or damaged
   

• A visual field test to check peripheral vision

Routine Eye Exams

It is vital to schedule routine eye exams annually or every two years to ensure good eye health. Testing for glaucoma occurs during a comprehensive eye exam. Glaucoma is usually detected during routine eye tests, even before symptoms manifest. If the tests suggest the presence of glaucoma, the patient is referred to a specialist to discuss treatment plans. 

While it may not reverse the loss of vision, early treatment for glaucoma is vital to prevent the worsening of the vision. Treatment will depend on the type of glaucoma, the stage of the disease, or how the condition has developed. Options include eye drops, laser treatment, and surgery. Regular monitoring of the disease is vital to prevent vision from becoming worse. 

For more on diagnosing and testing for glaucoma, visit Clarity Vision at our Williamston office. Call (252) 792-2250 to schedule an appointment today.