Glaucoma Testing & Treatment in Bedfordview

Welcome to Larry Zunde – Your family friendly optometrists situated in Bedfordview (East of Johannesburg). If you or a loved one are looking for glaucoma testing in Bedfordview, our experienced optometrists in Bedfordview use advanced techniques as well as special equipment to ensure early detection and personal care for patients at risk of glaucoma.

What is Glaucoma and why do you need to be tested early?

Glaucoma is an umbrella term used to describe a class of eye diseases that affects the optic nerve, due to an increase in pressure inside the eye, called the intraocular pressure (IOP).

The importance of early testing is vital and the reason is that when detected early, glaucoma can often be controlled, preventing blindness and more serious vision loss.

Monitoring intraocular pressure, assessing the optic nerve, and conducting visual field tests help optometrists evaluate the progression of glaucoma and adjust treatment plans accordingly. This proactive approach is essential for preventing permanent visual impairment.

However, symptoms of noticeable vision loss often only occur once the disease has progressed.

5 Advanced Glaucoma Testing Services:

These are the 4 main tests your optometrist will use to detect early signs of glaucoma:

Intraocular Pressure (IOP) Measurement

A common (and vital) part of a regular and comprehensive eye exam, is called IOP, and is the measurement of fluid pressure inside of your eye. This fluid pressure is determined by the equilibrium between the production and drainage of the aqueous humor, the clear liquid or fluid that fills your eyes.

Your optometrist will use a method called tonometry that is mainly used to measure IOP in your eyes. Without getting into the fine details, this method uses a tonometer that measures the intraocular pressure. Early detection using tonometry is vital for effective glaucoma management, and your optometrist will ensure this painless procedure falls part of your comprehensive eye exam.

Visual Field Testing for Peripheral Vision Assessment

In order to detect any blind spots (side vision), our optometrists will perform a visual field test. Glaucoma often affects peripheral sight first, and this is why this test is so important.

Pachymetry test

In order to view your optic nerve for any damage (another sign of Glaucoma), your optometrist will also measure the thickness of your cornea using an ultrasonic wave testing machine called a pachymetry test.

Gonioscopy for Drainage Angle Examination

Gonioscopy is another procedure that is used to test for Glaucoma and is usually done by an ophthalmologist. This is a medical procedure whereby your doctor will analyze the drainage angle of the eye.

When gonioscopy is done, a special lens called a gonioscope is placed near the eye’s surface. This gives your doctor a great view of the drainage angle.

Optic Nerve Head (ONH) Evaluation and Cup-to-Disc Ratio

The Optic Nerve Head (ONH) evaluation and Cup-to-Disc Ratio test are two areas of an eye examination that looks at the health of the optic nerve, which is crucial for vision. They are done by either your ophthalmologist or optometrist and are important for analyzing glaucoma.

If there are any signs of swelling in the optic nerve head, this may indicate glaucoma.

Risk Factors

As we mentioned, early detection of this condition is key and prevention is made more likely when treated as soon as possible. For his reason, regular eye exams are vital because symptoms of glaucoma are usually absent and you may not know you have this condition.

It should be noted that anyone can get this disease, however, there are certain risk factors that may put you at a higher risk. These include:

If you have diabetes
Family history of this illness
Over 60 years
If you have severe nearsightedness
Are on certain medication such as steroids
Have had an eye injury in the past.

Technology used to detect Glaucoma:

Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) for a detailed and clear image of your retina.
Corneal Pachymetry which is used to measure Corneal Thickness
Funduscopy used for Comprehensive Eye Examination
Tonometry

Glaucoma Treatment Options:

The main objective when treating this condition is to lower intraocular pressure and manage the condition to prevent further damage. Below are 5 treatment options for glaucoma once diagnosed:

Eye Drops (Medication route)

Eye drops or oral medications are used in order to bring down intraocular pressure. This is achieved by either increasing fluid drainage or decreasing fluid production within your eyes.

Laser therapy

The second treatment option is laser therapy and this is where your ophthalmologist will use a laser to reduce the pressure.

Surgery

Using a procedure called Trabeculectomy, this is where a small opening is made within the eye in order to reduce the intraocular pressure.

Why Choose Larry Zunde Optometrists for Glaucoma testing?

With over 20 years experience and located conveniently in Bedfordview, Johannesburg, our caring optometrists with modern technology will ensure your experience with us is as pleasant as possible.

Schedule Your Glaucoma Test in Bedfordview Today:

To book your glaucoma testing in Bedfordview, give us a call on: 011 454 3929 or book online at: https://larryzundeoptometrists.co.za/contact-us

Walk in and same day appointments are welcome as well, pending turnaround times.

Disclaimer

This information provided in this post is for informational purposes only and is not meant to diagnose or treat any medical conditions. Always consult your medical professional.