Are you a Glaucoma Suspect? | Ft. Lauderdale, FL

Are you a Glaucoma Suspect? Learn about the mystery behind Glaucoma

Early signs of Glaucoma are one of the hardest areas of optometry to capture. While the standard puff test can display signs Glaucoma and early diagnosis, pressure may only display signs of Glaucoma after the disease has progressed partially. Glaucoma has been known in the industry as the “sneak thief of sight” since the actual disease carries no symptoms until the disease has already progressed to a severe level.

What is Glaucoma?

At the surface of the eye, a fluid build-up creates a protective barrier against foreign bodies. When the fluid fails to drain out of the eye at the normal rate, the inside of the eye increases in pressure due to the excess fluid. This imbalance of pressure change damages the optic nerve slowly and painlessly and is known as Glaucoma.

Optometrists label certain patients as Glaucoma Suspects

Depending on your eye exam with an optometrist, the state of your eye health may classify you as a glaucoma suspect.

Here are some indicators that could be used:

• Elevated intraocular pressure
• Over the age of 40
• Family history
• Prior eye trauma
• The health and appearance of the optic nerve
• Eye inflammation
• Race, more common by African Americans

While being labeled a glaucoma suspect has no bearing whether you have glaucoma or not, your eye doctor may recommend more digital testing, such as an OCT scan to review the health of the optic nerve.

If you fall under some of the indicators above, speak to one of our eye doctors. We’ll review your medical history and ways to ensure your eyes remain healthy and how to prevent any vision damage from glaucoma.