Glaucoma, a leading cause of blindness worldwide, is a serious eye condition that often goes undetected until it progresses to advanced stages. Regular testing is essential to ensure early detection and prevent irreversible damage to the optic nerve, and a comprehensive glaucoma eye test will identify potential risk factors and diagnose the condition in its early stages. This early diagnosis means that the appropriate measures can be taken to manage or slow down the condition’s progression, so make sure to schedule your next appointment and preserve your vision in 2024.
Identifying Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a complex disease with various causes, and understanding these causes is crucial in appreciating the importance of being regularly tested. One of the primary causes of glaucoma is increased eye pressure, also known as intraocular pressure, which occurs when the fluid inside the eye does not drain properly. This pressure can damage the optic nerve, leading to vision complications and potential loss. While increased intraocular pressure is a major risk factor, it is important to note that not all individuals with high pressure develop glaucoma, and some individuals with normal pressure may still develop the condition.
Another widespread cause of glaucoma is genetics. Studies have shown that glaucoma can be hereditary, meaning it can be passed down from generation to generation, and certain medical conditions such as diabetes dramatically increase the risk of developing glaucoma. Glaucoma is occasionally referred to as diabetes blindness, so if you have a family history of glaucoma, or if you or a loved one is at risk through diabetes or an associated condition, it is even more important to attend regular tests to detect the condition early and take appropriate measures to manage it.
Glaucoma Eye Test at Dominic Tunnell Opticians
Given that glaucoma often presents no symptoms in its early stages, routine examinations are vital for early detection and prevention of glaucoma-related vision loss. At Dominic Tunnell Opticians, our glaucoma screening process evaluates various health factors, including age, family medical history, and medical conditions such as diabetes, to identify individuals who are at risk of developing glaucoma. With this information, and the results offered by our entirely painless and accurate testing methods, we will provide the appropriate monitoring and treatment that our patients need.
Our Optometrists offer three available methods to assess the ‘hardness’ of the eye in adults, all of which are completely painless and designed to provide accurate results.
- Air Puff Method
Our go-to method is the air puff method, which involves directing a tiny pulse of air onto the front of the eye to measure the intraocular pressure within the eye. This quick and non-invasive procedure provides us with valuable information about the health of your eyes and allows us to identify any abnormalities which could signify the development of glaucoma. - Rebound Device
In cases where the air puff method is not suitable, we can use a sophisticated ‘rebound’ device. This device measures the eye’s rigidity and by analysing the rebound of the probe, our optometrists can determine the eye’s hardness. This method is particularly useful for patients with certain eye conditions or discomfort with other methods. - Goldmann Device
For patients who require a more in-depth examination, we can administer an anaesthetic drop and use the Goldmann device. The Goldmann device is favoured by eye specialists due to its highly accurate measurements and involves using a small probe to gently touch the cornea and measure the pressure.
NHS Sight Tests
Both our standard eye exam and our extended eye exam include glaucoma screening to ensure that we are constantly monitoring for this issue, and we also carry out NHS sight tests for individuals who meet specific criteria. These criteria include individuals with diabetes, a family history of glaucoma, and those receiving Income Support & Pension Credit Guarantee Credit. Our goal in offering these services is to ensure that all individuals who may be at a higher risk of developing glaucoma have access to the regular eye examinations and comprehensive eye care that they need to ensure the early detection and management of this condition.
Book a Glaucoma Appointment Today
Don’t wait until it’s too late to protect your vision. Early diagnosis and appropriate management of glaucoma will help preserve your vision, so book an appointment with Dominic Tunnell Opticians today to ensure that your eyes receive the care and attention they deserve.
Contact us at 01905 613020 or visit our website to book your glaucoma eye test.
