How Does a Glaucoma Test Work?

When you hear the words glaucoma test, you might picture that quick, shocking puff of air at the eye doctor. But there’s much more to it than that.

A glaucoma evaluation is a comprehensive assessment of the health of your optic nerve, eye pressure, and peripheral vision, all key facets of your sight.

At Cooper Optometry in Santa Monica, California, our optometrists, Dr. Donna Cooper and Dr. Sarah Chung, use advanced technology to catch problems early and preserve your vision for years to come.

Here’s what to expect during your glaucoma test and why this proactive step is so important.

Why we test for glaucoma `

We test for glaucoma because it’s dubbed the “silent thief of sight” and can creep up without obvious symptoms.

When you come in for a glaucoma evaluation at Cooper Optometry, your provider evaluates your optic nerve, checks your side vision, looks at how fluid drains in your eye, and assesses your overall ocular health.

What to expect during the test

Knowing what to expect may help you relax before and during your test, which includes:

A pressure measurement to check the intraocular pressure in your eye
An evaluation of the drainage angle in your eye to see if fluid drains properly
A dilation of your pupils so your doctor can examine your retina and optic nerve
A visual field test to see whether you’ve already lost some vision
A measurement of your corneal thickness

Our team also asks you about your family history, any medications you take, and whether you have high blood pressure or diabetes — all of which help determine your glaucoma risk.

Next steps

After your test, we walk you through the results: whether your pressure is within a safe range, your optic nerve appears healthy, and your field of vision is intact. If treatment is necessary, your doctor may prescribe eye drops or recommend a surgical procedure.

We advise you to:

Come in regularly for comprehensive exams
Report any changes in your vision, like halos around lights
Call us if you experience any eye pain
Follow through on eyewear, dry eye care, or screen time adjustments as advised
Manage other issues (e.g., blood pressure and diabetes) that can affect eye health

Your glaucoma test isn’t a one-time check; it’s an investment in your long-term vision. Our team is committed to helping you see clearly and confidently for life. Call us today to schedule a glaucoma evaluation or request one online.