Glaucoma Testing

 What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a disease of the eye which causes damage to the optic nerve and leads to progressive irreversible loss of vision. It is often associated with increased pressure of the fluid of the eye.

Glaucoma develops slowly and often there are no symptoms. In the early stages it is the nerve fibres associated with vision away from the centre of the eye people can be unaware of the disease for many years. 

While it is not possible to restore lost vision, effective treatment is available, therefore the earlier we can detect Glaucoma the better it is for you.

How do we diagnose Glaucoma?

As part of our regular eye tests, we screen all our customers for Glaucoma.  Our Optometrists will discuss family history with you as well as conducting a thorough visual inspection of your optic nerve to check for signs of damage. This sometimes involves the use of drops to dilate the pupil allowing for a closer look at the inside of your eye.

At our Sheffield practice we also have equipment which allows us to carry out in depth examinations of the health of your eyes. This includes:

·        Humphrey field test – a test using light to check your peripheral vision; 

·        Tonometer or “puff of air test” – a test using small puffs of air to check the pressure of the fluid in your eyes.