The Essential Glaucoma Tests You Need to Know About
Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of permanent blindness worldwide. Often called the “silent thief of sight,” this condition develops gradually, causing irreversible damage to the optic nerve before noticeable symptoms appear. The best defense against glaucoma is early detection through specialized eye tests.
At Sood Eye Hospital, Jalandhar, we use advanced diagnostic techniques to detect glaucoma early and provide personalized treatment plans to prevent vision loss. In this article, we explore the essential tests for detecting and monitoring glaucoma.
What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is an eye disease that damages the optic nerve, usually due to increased intraocular pressure (IOP). The optic nerve transmits visual signals from the eye to the brain, allowing us to see. Damage to this nerve can lead to gradual vision loss and blindness if left untreated.
Types of Glaucoma
- Open-Angle Glaucoma (Most common) – Develops slowly without symptoms, causing gradual vision loss.
- Angle-Closure Glaucoma – A sudden rise in eye pressure that requires emergency treatment.
- Normal-Tension Glaucoma – Occurs even when eye pressure is normal, affecting the optic nerve.
- Congenital Glaucoma – Present at birth, requiring early medical intervention.
Who is at Risk for Glaucoma?
- People Over 40 – Age increases the risk of developing glaucoma.
- Family History – If glaucoma runs in the family, regular eye exams are essential.
- Diabetes & Hypertension – These conditions can increase eye pressure and glaucoma risk.
- Long-Term Steroid Use – Medications like corticosteroids can lead to glaucoma.
- Previous Eye Injuries – Trauma to the eye can block drainage and raise pressure.
- High Myopia (Nearsightedness) – People with severe myopia are at higher risk.
If you belong to any of these high-risk groups, routine glaucoma screening at Sood Eye Hospital is recommended.
Essential Glaucoma Tests at Sood Eye Hospital
At Sood Eye Hospital, Jalandhar, we provide comprehensive glaucoma screenings using the latest technology. Here are the most crucial tests for detecting and monitoring glaucoma:
1. Tonometry – Measuring Eye Pressure
Tonometry is the first step in diagnosing glaucoma. It measures intraocular pressure (IOP) to detect abnormalities.
Types of Tonometry:
- Goldmann Applanation Tonometry – The gold standard for measuring eye pressure.
- Non-Contact Tonometry (Puff Test) – Uses a puff of air to measure IOP without direct contact.
2. Ophthalmoscopy – Examining the Optic Nerve
Ophthalmoscopy allows eye specialists to inspect the optic nerve head for signs of damage.
The doctor looks for:
- Optic nerve cupping – A key sign of glaucoma.
- Color changes – A pale nerve may indicate damage.
- Blood vessel abnormalities – Changes in blood supply to the nerve.
3. Visual Field Test (Perimetry) – Checking Peripheral Vision
Glaucoma first affects side vision (peripheral vision) before central vision is lost.
How It Works:
- The patient looks straight ahead while lights or patterns appear in peripheral vision.
- Missed signals indicate vision loss due to glaucoma.
This test helps detect glaucoma early, even before symptoms appear!
4. Pachymetry – Measuring Corneal Thickness
Corneal thickness affects IOP readings, so this test is essential for accurate diagnosis.
- Thin cornea (≤500 microns) – Higher glaucoma risk
- Thick cornea – Can result in falsely high IOP readings
This test helps the doctor adjust eye pressure measurements for better accuracy.
5. Gonioscopy – Examining the Eye’s Drainage Angle
Glaucoma develops when the eye’s drainage angle is blocked, leading to fluid buildup and increased pressure.
Gonioscopy helps determine:
- Open-angle or closed-angle glaucoma
- Blockages in the drainage system
- Risk of acute glaucoma attacks
A special gonioscope lens is used to examine the angle where the iris meets the cornea.
6. Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) – Imaging the Optic Nerve
OCT is an advanced, non-invasive imaging test that provides high-resolution 3D images of the optic nerve.
Why OCT is Crucial for Glaucoma Diagnosis:
- Detects nerve fiber thinning before vision loss occurs
- Measures optic nerve health
- Helps monitor disease progression
Sood Eye Hospital uses state-of-the-art OCT machines to provide the most accurate diagnosis.
Why Choose Sood Eye Hospital for Glaucoma Screening?
- Experienced Specialists – Our expert team, led by Dr. (Insert Doctor’s Name if Needed), specializes in glaucoma diagnosis and treatment.
- Latest Technology – We use Goldmann Tonometry, OCT, Perimetry, and Pachymetry for the most precise glaucoma detection.
- Comprehensive Eye Care – From early diagnosis to glaucoma surgeries (Trabeculectomy, Laser Treatments, and Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery – MIGS), we offer full-spectrum care.
- Personalized Treatment – We develop customized treatment plans based on individual patient needs.
