Every day I hear patients using the following term, “The dreaded Glaucoma test,” when they are referring to the test where a puff of air is blown into the eye to measure the Intra-Ocular pressure. But unfortunately, this test alone is far from a “Glaucoma test”!

A thorough examination of the Optic nerve is crucial to test for Glaucoma. So, what better tool to use than an Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) scanner to obtain a detailed scan of the Optic Nerve. Research shows that a thinning of the Ganglion Cell Complex can lead to very early Glaucoma. Coupled with a precise measurement of the Retinal Nerve fiber layer (RNFL) of the Optic Nerve and the OCT scanner shows us so much more than a photo of the retina and optic nerve alone.

Since having an OCT scanner, we at Van der Walt Optometrists have picked up many patients who have low or normal Intra-Ocular pressure but are diagnosed with Glaucoma. Therefore, when performing the OCT scan, the RNFL of the Optic Nerve is measured, which then shows thinning, something that happens in Glaucoma. Every time a patient comes for a follow-up, we can compare the thickness of these fibers.

If any change or thinning of the RNFL is detected, we will refer the patient to an Ophthalmologist early, and treatment will start before the patient shows any symptoms. Unfortunately, the damage done by Glaucoma can’t be reversed, but you can prevent further damage with an early and correct treatment regime.

So please do not settle for only a “Glaucoma pressure test.” Instead, ask your Optometrist to do a thorough examination of the Optic Nerve, including the thickness of the RNFL and the Ganglion Cell Complex.