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What is a Glaucoma Evaluation?
Glaucoma tests are used to screen for and diagnose glaucoma. Diagnosing glaucoma as early as possible ensures we can start treatment, slow the progression of the disease, and prevent vision loss.
If we suspect glaucoma, we may run one or more tests to determine the type of glaucoma and the proper treatment, including:
- Eye angle exam
- Corneal thickness measurement
- Dilated eye exam
- Eye pressure check
- Optic nerve imaging
- Visual field test
Who Needs A Glaucoma Evaluation?
We recommend some form of testing for glaucoma to all our patients. Even if you’re not experiencing symptoms, an evaluation can determine if you’re at risk for the disorder or if you have glaucoma.
There are several risk factors for glaucoma that make regular testing necessary, including:
- Over age 60: Glaucoma is much more common in older people
- African Americans over age 40: Glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness in African Americans.
- Asian Americans: Asian Americans have a higher risk for a type of open-angle glaucoma called normal-pressure or normal-tension glaucoma.
- Family history of glaucoma: You can inherit glaucoma from your parents
- Certain medical conditions: Diabetes and high blood pressure can increase your risk of glaucoma.
What to Expect During A Glaucoma Evaluation
During your glaucoma evaluation, we’ll first start by dilating your eyes and testing your eye pressure, either using a puff of air or by gently pressing a special tool against the eye. If the pressure is high, you’re likely to have glaucoma. Your specialist will also use optic nerve imaging to look at the optic nerve and check for damage.
Other tests we may run include a cornea thickness test, where we place a small device on your cornea to measure it. This gives us more accurate information on how high your eye pressure really is. We may also perform a visual field test to check if your peripheral vision has been affected and a gonioscopy to look at the drainage system in the eye.
After A Glaucoma Evaluation
Because we dilate your eyes to perform a glaucoma evaluation, you will need to have someone drive you home from your appointment. You’ll also want to bring sunglasses for after your exam as your eyes will be sensitive to light.
If your eye care specialist diagnoses glaucoma, your treatment will depend on the type of condition you have. They will discuss treatment options that will work best for your needs. Treatment won’t cure the disease or restore any vision you have already lost, but it can prevent further vision loss. Glaucoma treatment options can include medication, eye drops, eye surgery, and laser surgery.
Schedule A Consultation
If you suspect you have glaucoma or haven’t had your regular check-up in a while, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with our team at Eye Consultants! Call our Wilmington, DE office at 302-581-8287 or use our online contact form. We proudly serve the Dover, Middletown, Newark, Smyrna, Townsend, and Wilmington areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should glaucoma patients be checked?
What are the guidelines for glaucoma screening?
How long does a glaucoma evaluation take?
What should I avoid before a glaucoma screening?
How quickly does glaucoma progress?
What are the screening methods for glaucoma?
Can you drive after a glaucoma test?
What symptoms arise with glaucoma?
How long does a glaucoma visit take?
Dr. Heather Dealy
Board-Certified Ophthalmologist & Glaucoma Specialist
Dr. Dealy is a dedicated and experienced ophthalmic practitioner and surgeon who enjoys taking care of patients and invests particular attention to their surgical care. She began her career in private practice in 2004 in the Wilmington, Delaware community and has been ranked among the Top Physicians in New Castle County in the Delaware Today… Continue reading Dr. Heather Dealy
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Contact Us Today
Your health is our top priority and we look forward to assisting you in your eyecare journey. Please call the office at (302) 998-2333 or fill out our contact form to schedule your appointment.
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