Specialized Glaucoma Testing at ReFocus Eye Health North Wales
What Is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that can damage the optic nerve and cause permanent vision loss, often without warning. Regular eye exams are important because early glaucoma usually has no obvious symptoms.
Glaucoma usually results from increased pressure inside the eye, called intraocular pressure, which can damage the optic nerve. Other risk factors include age, family history, certain medical conditions, and eye structure.
- Family history of glaucoma
- Age over 60, or over 40 for people of African descent
- Hispanic, Asian, or African ancestry
- Conditions like diabetes, sleep apnea, or high blood pressure
- Thin corneas or past eye injuries
Knowing the type of glaucoma helps determine which specialized tests and treatments you may need.
- Open-angle glaucoma: The most common form, develops slowly and often has no symptoms in early stages.
- Angle-closure glaucoma: Less common, but can occur suddenly and cause eye pain and vision loss.
- Normal-tension glaucoma: Damage to the optic nerve occurs even when eye pressure is in the normal range.
Glaucoma usually causes gradual loss of peripheral (side) vision first. If untreated, it can lead to 'tunnel vision' and eventually central vision loss. Vision lost to glaucoma cannot be recovered, but early treatment can prevent more damage.
Because glaucoma rarely causes symptoms early on, many people do not realize they have it. Regular, specialized testing is the best way to catch glaucoma early and protect your eyesight.
Why Specialized Tests Matter
Specialized tests help our eye doctors find signs of glaucoma that cannot be detected by a basic eye exam. These tests give a detailed picture of your eye health and support the most effective treatment plan for you.
At ReFocus Eye Health North Wales, our team uses the newest and most reliable equipment to make sure your glaucoma diagnosis and treatment are accurate. We update our technology regularly to provide you with the best care possible.
Results from these specialized tests allow our eye doctors to tailor your treatment to your specific needs. This may include eye drops, laser therapy, surgery, or ongoing monitoring, depending on your type and stage of glaucoma.
Once glaucoma is diagnosed, regular specialized testing lets us track your progress and adjust your treatment to help keep your vision as strong as possible.
These tests may also reveal other eye conditions, such as cataracts or retinal issues, which lets us take care of your overall eye health in one place.
Common Specialized Tests We Perform
We offer a full range of non-invasive, quick, and painless glaucoma tests at our North Wales location, ensuring you receive comprehensive care in a familiar and welcoming setting.
This checks for any loss in your side vision, which is often an early sign of glaucoma. It involves looking into a dome-shaped machine and pressing a button when you see lights appear in your side vision.
OCT uses safe, low-light scanning to create detailed images of your optic nerve and retina. This test allows our eye doctors to detect even small changes that may suggest early glaucoma before you notice any symptoms.
Tonometry measures the pressure inside your eye (intraocular pressure). It can be done with a gentle puff of air or a soft probe, after using numbing drops to keep you comfortable. Elevated eye pressure is a key risk factor for glaucoma.
This test uses a special lens to look at the drainage angle in your eye, helping determine the type of glaucoma you may have. Numbing drops keep you comfortable during this quick, in-office procedure.
Pachymetry measures the thickness of your cornea. Because thin corneas can impact your risk and affect pressure readings, this simple test helps your care team make the most accurate diagnosis.
High-resolution images of your optic nerve are taken to look for any changes over time. This allows us to track your glaucoma and adjust your care as needed.
This advanced test checks how flexible your cornea is, which can influence your risk of glaucoma and guide more personalized treatment planning.
Getting Ready for Your Glaucoma Tests
Most glaucoma tests are fast and easy to prepare for, but following a few simple steps can help you get the most accurate results and a positive experience at your appointment.
Bring your current glasses, a list of your medications, and any past eye exam records. If you wear contact lenses, bring your case and solution, as you may need to remove them for certain tests.
Avoid drinking a lot of caffeine beforehand, as it can sometimes affect eye pressure. If you are told your eyes will be dilated, please plan for a ride home, as you may be sensitive to bright light or have blurry vision after your visit.
Wear comfortable clothing and be ready to sit still for a few minutes during each test. The procedures are safe and gentle, and our team will guide you through each step to make you feel at ease.
If your eyes were dilated, your vision may be blurry, and you’ll be more sensitive to light for a few hours. Wearing sunglasses and resting your eyes will help until your vision goes back to normal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Glaucoma Testing
We want you to feel informed and confident about your care. Below are answers to common questions about glaucoma testing at ReFocus Eye Health North Wales.
Most adults over 40 should get a comprehensive eye exam every one to two years. If you have risk factors for glaucoma or have already been diagnosed, you may need testing more often, as recommended by our eye doctors.
No. Most tests are completely painless. For tests involving contact with your eye, numbing drops are used to keep you comfortable.
If results suggest glaucoma, our team will work with you to create a personalized care plan that may include medicated eye drops, laser therapy, or surgery. Early treatment helps prevent further vision loss, so you can continue enjoying life in North Wales and beyond.
Most medical insurance plans cover specialized glaucoma testing when you have risk factors or symptoms. Our staff can help you understand your coverage and answer any questions you may have about costs.
Each test gives different information about your eyes. Together, they help build a complete picture so our eye doctors can make the best decisions for your care.
Each test usually takes just a few minutes, but a full glaucoma evaluation can take 45 to 90 minutes, especially if your eyes need to be dilated.
Being well-rested and relaxed helps you get the most accurate results, especially for tests like the visual field test that require your attention.
Absolutely. Our North Wales office is accessible for patients with different needs. Just let our staff know if you have any special requirements before your visit, and we’ll make sure you are comfortable and supported.
Your Partner in Lifelong Vision
At ReFocus Eye Health North Wales, we are dedicated to protecting and preserving your sight with personalized, expert care. By offering advanced glaucoma testing and serving patients from North Wales, nearby communities, and throughout the Greater Philadelphia Region, we help you take charge of your eye health today and in the future.
The office was busy but all staff were kind and friendly. Dr. Lindsey Barouh answered all my questions. Highly recommend.
Lisa Beck
Everyone is friendly, clean, very professional. Dr. Clark is the best in his field, wouldn’t trust my eyes to anyone else!
margie guyger
Dr. Clark made my mom comfortable, explained the issue in great detail, and thanks to him we have corrective treatment in early-stage glaucoma.
Maureen Boyd
Dr. Clark IS THE BEST! He did surgery for me and is a great guy. Staff is awesome! Highly recommend OP&S, PC!
Pat Toner
Dr. Clark is a great doctor. Always listens and has genuine concern for his patients. I’ve seen him for over 10 years. Highly recommend for all eye care and problems.
Ron Jacobs
Contact Us
Tuesday: 8am-4pm
Wednesday: 8am-4pm
Thursday: 8am-4pm
Friday: 8am-4pm
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed