Glaucoma Tests
Reviewed
Glaucoma tests are a group of eye exams that help diagnose glaucoma, a condition that can damage the optic nerve and lead to vision loss. These tests measure eye pressure, examine the optic nerve, check peripheral vision, and assess the eye's drainage system.
Preparation and collection
If you wear glasses or contact lenses, bring them with you. Bring sunglasses to wear after the exam in case your eyes are sensitive to light. Also, plan to have someone take you home because your vision may be blurry after dilation.
Understanding this test
Use the reference interval and units printed by the laboratory that performed the test. A result outside that interval is not a diagnosis by itself, and a result inside it does not rule out every condition. Your symptoms, history, medicines, timing, and related tests can change what the result means.
- Screening tests like the air-puff test may be less accurate than other methods and can give false-positive or false-negative results.
- Normal test results do not completely rule out glaucoma, especially normal-tension glaucoma.
- Abnormal test results do not always mean you have glaucoma; other eye conditions can cause similar findings.
- After dilation, you may have blurry vision and light sensitivity for a few hours, which can affect daily activities.
What to do next
If your tests suggest glaucoma, your eye care specialist will recommend a treatment plan to lower eye pressure and prevent vision loss. Treatment may include medicated eye drops, laser therapy, or surgery. Regular follow-up tests will be needed to monitor your condition and treatment effectiveness. If an optometrist performed the exam, you may be referred to an ophthalmologist for further care.