Why screen for glaucoma early?

Glaucoma is a progressive and often silent eye disease that can lead to irreversible vision loss.

Early detection can slow the progression of the disease, thus preserving patients’ quality of life.

Read on to discover the reasons for screening for glaucoma at its earliest signs and how to take effective action.

Why is early screening for glaucoma essential to preserve vision?

 

Early screening for glaucoma is essential to prevent blindness, as this condition is one of the leading causes of vision loss worldwide.

 

Glaucoma, especially chronic open-angle glaucoma, is often asymptomatic in its early stages, making regular screening all the more crucial. 

 

Discover the key steps for early glaucoma screening.

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Why consult an ophthalmologist for early glaucoma screening?

The first step in screening is to consult an ophthalmologist.

 

During this consultation, several tests will be performed to assess general ocular health, as well as the presence of risk factors, such as:

 

  • family history of glaucoma;
  • ocular hypertension;
  • conditions such as diabetes or vascular pathologies.

What tests are used for early glaucoma screening?

Measuring intraocular pressure (IOP)

 

One of the most important tests during screening is measuring intraocular pressure, usually performed with a tonometer.

A pressure higher than normal, generally above 21 mmHg, may indicate ocular hypertension and requires further investigation.

Elevated IOP can result from poor drainage of aqueous humor in the anterior chamber of the eye. 

Visual field testing

Frequently affecting myopic people, early detection of glaucoma requires special attention from ophthalmologists, particularly through examinations such as fundus examinations.

 

Glaucoma often affects peripheral vision first.

 

Tests such as perimetry can detect any alteration of peripheral vision that may suggest damage to the retinal nerve fibers.

 

This visual field assessment is another crucial step in glaucoma screening!

Optic Nerve Assessment

Examination of the optic nerve, particularly the optic nerve head and optic disc, is essential.

 

Ophthalmologists look for signs of cupping or disc alteration, which may be indicators of optic nerve damage due to glaucoma.

 

Retinal and disc imaging may also be performed to further assess the condition of the nerve structures.

What additional tests are available for early glaucoma detection?

Depending on the initial results, further testing may be recommended, including a visual acuity assessment and screening for macular degeneration or related retinopathies.

Special attention is paid to assessing the potential side effects of prescribed treatments, including prostaglandin eye drops, beta-blockers, or agonists to reduce eye pressure.

Why use advanced techniques for early glaucoma screening?

Modern technologies, such as OCT (optical coherence tomography), allow for detailed analysis of retinal layers and nerve fibers.

 

These tests provide valuable information about the health of the optic nerve and retina.

 

Argon laser and other laser treatments may be reserved for advanced cases, but they are also diagnostic tools in certain settings.

What is the treatment after early glaucoma screening?

First-line ophthalmic treatment for glaucoma often involves the use of eye drops.

These drops, administered daily, help reduce eye pressure by decreasing the pressure inside the eye.

This treatment aims to prevent optic nerve damage, which can occur without symptoms.

Regular monitoring of the field of vision is necessary to assess the effectiveness of the treatment.

When used properly, eye drops can stabilize the progression of glaucoma and prevent irreversible visual damage.

What types of glaucoma can be revealed by early detection?

Early detection of glaucoma is essential, as this condition can occur without any apparent symptoms and lead to irreversible blindness if not treated promptly.

 

There are several forms, such as chronic glaucoma, open-angle glaucoma — the most common — and acute-angle glaucoma, which is often linked to a closure of the drainage angle, causing a sudden increase in intraocular pressure.

 

In infants, this is called congenital glaucoma.

 

An ophthalmologist can measure eye pressure, assess the risk of glaucoma, and make an accurate diagnosis through appropriate tests.

cure juvenile glaucoma

Some patients with glaucoma are unaware of their condition, hence the importance of regular screening, particularly for those at risk.

 

Detecting the disease early can preserve the optic nerve and slow the progression of the disease.

In conclusion

Early and regular screening by an ophthalmologist is essential to detect glaucoma and prevent irreversible vision loss.

 

Screening strategies include intraocular pressure measurement, visual field assessment, and optic nerve examination.

 

People with a family history, signs of ocular hypertension, or other risk factors should be particularly vigilant and undergo regular checkups, as early medical or surgical treatment can make a significant difference in managing this disease.

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