Glaucoma Diagnosis

Regular eye exams are important, as early glaucoma diagnosis can help prevent vision loss

For people with glaucoma, the best way to prevent vision loss is through early diagnosis and treatment.

Glaucoma diagnosis

You should see your eye care professional at least every two years for an exam. People at higher risk may need more frequent screenings.

You may be at higher risk if you have:

• High intraocular pressure (IOP)
• Family history of glaucoma
• African American or Hispanic background ( open-angle glaucoma is more common in African Americans)
• Existing optic nerve damage

A glaucoma diagnosis involves identifying damage to eye tissue, often related to elevated intraocular pressure. To evaluate for glaucoma, your Henry Ford ophthalmologist will perform a comprehensive eye exam that may include:

• Tonometry, a simple and painless test that measures eye pressure
• Evaluation of optic nerve health
• Visual field testing

Additional imaging tests may be used to further assess optic nerve damage and confirm the diagnosis.

What to expect during your glaucoma eye exam

A typical glaucoma eye exam lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours. We make every effort to stay on schedule. If you are running late or need to reschedule, please call us as soon as possible.

During your exam:

• You will complete forms about your medical history, eye health and insurance. Our staff can assist if needed.
• An ophthalmic technician will review your symptoms and take preliminary measurements. Eye drops will be used to dilate your pupils, which typically takes 20 to 30 minutes.
• Once your pupils are dilated, your ophthalmologist will perform a comprehensive exam and answer your questions.
• A report of your visit and test results will be shared with your optometrist and primary care doctor.

Please bring the following to your appointment:

• Your eyeglasses
• A list of medications, including eye drops
• The name and contact information of your optometrist and primary care doctor
• Insurance information or referral forms, if required
• Someone to drive you home after your appointment
• Previous eye exam or visual field records, if you have been diagnosed with glaucoma

At Henry Ford, patients come first

The Henry Ford Department of Ophthalmology is committed to providing compassionate, personalized care using the most advanced treatments available. We are dedicated to vision research and remain at the forefront of innovation. As one of the largest ophthalmology practices in the United States, we treat more than 55,000 patients each year at 12 locations throughout southeast Michigan. Our team also collaborates across specialties to provide coordinated, multidisciplinary care.