How to Diagnose Glaucoma

Although this article is focused on glaucoma diagnosis, it is worthwhile to note that presently there is no cure for glaucoma. Read this article to see how glaucoma is diagnosed and a few tests that help diagnose glaucoma including:

• The tonometry test is performed by a doctor. During this test, intraocular pressure (IOP) is measured by recording the resistance of cornea to pressure (indentation). This test helps in verifying whether medicine is effective in keeping the IOP below a certain target level set by the doctor.

A normal range is 10 to 21 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). An abnormal range is higher than 21 mm Hg.

Other tests may include:

• An ophthalmoscope used to visually check for increased intraocular pressure.
• A visual field test to check for blind areas in your vision.
• A pachymeter used to measure the Central Corneal Thickness. A difference in the test results can actually detect smaller hidden cases of glaucoma.

A combination of findings is necessary before the patient can be diagnosed with glaucoma. The most common signs that are expected are areas of blind vision, increased intraocular pressure, optical nerve damage, and loss of vision.

For more information on glaucoma, see below:

Recognize the Symptoms of Glaucoma

Glaucoma: Top 5 Symptoms

Glaucoma: How Your Diet Plays a Role

Glaucoma: Top 5 Drugs That Work

Glaucoma: Top Natural Supplements for Treatment