Glaucoma Screening

Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness in the world and the leading cause of irreversible blindness. It is a result of an increase in the pressure of the eye (intraocular pressure) which causes progressive damage to the optic nerve.
In most cases the condition progresses slowly and insidiously, and the patient is not often aware of the condition until a late stage. By the time the patient notices a deterioration of vision, there is often already moderate to severe damage of the optic nerve.
Glaucoma Screening
Early detection and treatment of glaucoma is important in preventing further damage and visual loss. The patient should see an eye specialist who will be able to determine if glaucoma is present and to assess its severity.
There is no cure for glaucoma but in most cases it can be successfully controlled with medical, laser or surgical treatment. Patients will require long-term follow-up to ensure that the glaucoma control is adequate.

You will be assessed by an ophthalmologist during this review:
- Detailed history taking with assessment of risk factors
- Measuring intraocular pressure (tonometry)
- Assessment of anterior chamber and inspection of the angles (gonioscopy)
- Assessment of optic nerve with dilated eye examination
- Testing of optic nerve damage with imaging such as Humphrey visual field test and optic nerve scan

Assessment will be made whether the glaucoma is an open-angle or closed angle glaucoma as treatment may differ in both conditions.
