Understanding how glaucoma is Detected: Methods and diagnostic techniques explained
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve of the eye. Often caused by elevated pressure within the eye (intraocular pressure or IOP). If glaucoma is left untreated, it can lead to irreversible damage, such as permanent vision loss or even blindness in some cases.
Early detection is crucial for effective management and treatment. Here we will explore primary diagnostic methods used to detect glaucoma and their importance in protecting vision.
Important Glaucoma symptoms to look out for
- Loss of peripheral vision – this is the first noticeable symptom.
- Tunnel vision – a narrowing of the field of vision.
- Blurred vision – distorted or clouded vision.
- Halos around lights – seeing rainbow-coloured circles around lights.
- Eye pain – in some cases, you can experience eye pain.
- Headaches – experience frequent headaches, particularly around the eyes.
- Nausea and Vomiting – particularly in acute glaucoma cases.
Important Glaucoma symptoms to look out for
- Loss of peripheral vision – this is the first noticeable symptom.
- Tunnel vision – a narrowing of the field of vision.
- Blurred vision – distorted or clouded vision.
- Halos around lights – seeing rainbow-coloured circles around lights.
- Eye pain – in some cases, you can experience eye pain.
- Headaches – experience frequent headaches, particularly around the eyes.
- Nausea and Vomiting – particularly in acute glaucoma cases.
Methods on how is glaucoma detected
- Comprehensive glaucoma eye exam – this comprehensive eye exam is the first step in glaucoma detection. It includes several tests to assess eye health and identify early signs of the disease. The exam typically involves:
- Visual acuity test (To measure the sharpness of the vision)
- Tonometry (To measure eye pressure)
- Pupil dilation (to examine the optic nerve)
This exam is critical because glaucoma may develop without obvious symptoms, and early detection helps prevent vision loss.
- Ophthalmoscopy: assessing the optic nerve—Glaucoma affects the optic nerve, which is responsible for transmitting visual signals to the brain. This test allows doctors to examine the optic nerve to check for signs of damage. The doctor uses a special tool, the ophthalmoscope, to inspect the optic nerve for abnormalities like thinning or cupping. Optic nerve damage is a key indicator of glaucoma.
- Visual field test One of the earlier signs of glaucoma is the gradual loss of peripheral vision. The visual field test measures the range of vision and helps identify blind spots. The patient looks straight ahead while lights are flashed in their peripheral vision. Missing these signals can indicate vision loss or glaucoma.
- Gonioscopy: Examining the drainage angle—Gonioscopy evaluates the drainage angle in the glaucoma test, where the fluid leaves the eye. If the angle is blocked, it can cause increased pressure, leading to glaucoma. A special lens is placed on the eye to examine the drainage system and identify whether it’s open or blocked. Determining whether the person has open-angle or angle-closure glaucoma affects treatment options and urgency.
- pachymetry: Measuring corneal thickness – corneal thickness affects IOP measurements. Pachymetry is a simple eye test that measures the thickness of your cornea. A probe touches the eye to measure corneal thickness with numbing drops used to ensure comfort. People with thin corneas are at higher risk for glaucoma, and pachymetry helps refine IOP readings, improving diagnostic surgery.
- Optical coherence tomography (OCT): Imaging the retina and optic nerve—OCT is a noninvasive imaging technique that provides detailed images of the retina and optic nerve. It uses light waves to capture cross-sectional images, allowing for precise measurement of the thickness of the optic nerve and retina. OCT can detect early structural changes in the optic nerve, even before vision loss occurs.
Take Control of Glaucoma – Preserve Your Vision with Expert Care
Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that can eventually lead to permanent vision loss. Early detection through the above-mentioned methods how is glaucoma detected are crucial for early detection and cure, consult us at Suruchi Eye Hospital for support and diagnostics from the experts on the field who will help you assist and cure your glaucoma today, feel free to contact.
