Glaucoma is diagnosed through a comprehensive dilated eye exam conducted by an eye doctor.
Understanding Glaucoma Diagnosis
A comprehensive eye exam is the primary method for diagnosing glaucoma. This procedure is straightforward and painless, focusing on evaluating the health of your eyes and identifying potential issues like glaucoma.
The Comprehensive Dilated Eye Exam
The core of glaucoma diagnosis involves a dilated eye exam. Here's a breakdown of what to expect:
- Eye Dilation: Your eye doctor will administer eye drops to widen your pupils. This process allows for a better view of the inside of your eye, particularly the optic nerve, which is crucial for detecting glaucoma-related damage.
- Eye Examination: Once your pupils are dilated, the doctor will examine your eyes using special instruments to look for signs of glaucoma or other eye problems.
- Visual Field Test: A visual field test will also be performed, as part of a comprehensive eye exam, to evaluate your peripheral (side) vision. This is vital because glaucoma often affects side vision first.
Why Regular Eye Exams are Important
- Early Detection: Glaucoma often has no early symptoms, making routine eye exams essential for early detection and timely treatment.
- Preventing Vision Loss: Early detection and treatment are critical for preventing significant vision loss associated with glaucoma.
Summary of Glaucoma Diagnosis
| Diagnostic Test | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Dilated Eye Exam | To examine the optic nerve and structures of the eye for signs of glaucoma. |
| Visual Field Test | To evaluate the peripheral vision, which is often affected by glaucoma. |
