How to Tell If It's Glaucoma

Glaucoma is the slow progression and damage of your optic nerves. Over time you can completely lose your vision. According to the Mayo Clinic, "Glaucoma is the second leading cause of of blindness." In order to prevent glaucoma, regular examinations by an ophthalmologist are necessary. Some forms of glaucoma, such as open-angle glaucoma (the loss of peripheral vision) present no signs of degeneration until it's too late. The only way you can detect glaucoma is by getting regular eye exams.

Instructions

Eye Examinations

• 1

  Tell your ophthalmologist if you have a family history of glaucoma. Also discuss any other issues you may have regarding any visual disturbances, such as eye pain or loss of peripheral vision.

• 2

  Get a screening for glaucoma, which includes a tonometry. A tonometry checks the fluid pressure within your eyes.

• 3

  Get the optic nerves within your eyes examined. Your ophthalmologist will need to examine the fibers within your eyes to determine the extent of damage. Any changes within your optic nerves will indicate the presence of glaucoma.

• 4

  Take a visual test. A test specifically designed for glaucoma will be administered to determine if you've lost any of your peripheral vision.

• 5

  Undergo a pachymetry procedure. Your eyes will need to be numbed for the procedure since your ophthalmologist will need to thoroughly examine your corneas. Your ophthalmologist will need to examine any thickness within your corneas, which will indicate signs of glaucoma.