The most common form of glaucoma is one that affects vision very quietly. It is known as 'The silent thief of vision', as it causes no symptoms in its early stages, and by the time that a person notes changes in vision, the damage is irreversible. To diagnose glaucoma, a careful medical history is taken (part of every routine medical eye examination), and risk factors are noted by the doctor.
The intraocular pressure is then taken. In the Al Basil Eye Clinic, we use a Tonopen measuring device. This device is gentle (there is no puff of air)painless, and is able to check the eye pressure of even small children who are at risk for glaucoma.
The optic disc is then carefully examined. This is the area where the optic nerve enters the eyeball, and is the part that is damaged by high pressures. Examination of the optic disc requires experience and training,as early changes can be quite subtle.
If the pressure and disc appearance alert the clinician to the presence of possible or definite glaucoma,a computerized visual field analysis is then performed. In our clinic, we have a state-of-the-art Humphrey Visual Field Analyzer with Fastpac and statistical analysis software.
This allows for early detection of any variations from normal. In addition the additional software makes the test much faster and less tiring to the patient. 
The statistical analysis software compares the results to a control group of the patient's exact age, so as to allow a patient with definite glaucoma to be monitored for any progression of damage. This is far more exact than simply monitoring pressure and disc changes alone, as the changes can be very slow and subtle.
 | Clinic 2, Building 159, Palace Avenue, Block 318, Hoora. Tel. 17-310030  | |