Glaucoma Checks: Concerns and Recommendations

Glaucoma examination

Hello, I would like to ask you three questions.

1.
I recently went to the hospital for an ophthalmology examination, and the doctor arranged for the technician to perform a visual nerve examination.
The first technician was not familiar with the equipment and attempted the test three times on both my left and right eyes without success.
Finally, another technician was able to complete the test successfully.
In total, I underwent the test four times that day.
Will this harm my eyes?
2.
The doctor later reviewed my visual nerve examination results and concluded that they do not fully resemble the symptoms of glaucoma, suggesting that my condition may have been congenital.
He recommended regular follow-ups every six months to monitor any changes in the visual nerve.
He also mentioned that even if glaucoma is later diagnosed, based on the current state of my visual nerve, treatment with medication over the next one to two years should not affect my vision.
Can I feel reassured that regular follow-ups every six months are sufficient?
3.
Due to my dry eyes, the doctor prescribed artificial tears (Icare) for me.
However, when I got home and read the instructions, I discovered that it is not recommended for glaucoma patients.
Since I cannot completely rule out glaucoma, can I still use this product? Thank you for your answers.

Lán sè dà hǎi, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/10/22

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology

1.
The normal examination process will not harm your eyes, so you can rest assured.
2.
If you are still concerned, you may seek a second opinion from another physician, as they have not personally examined you and may hesitate to provide a definitive answer.
3.
Dry eye drops generally do not exacerbate glaucoma, so there should be no concerns regarding their use.

Reply Date: 2016/10/22

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your questions regarding glaucoma checks and your eye health. Let’s address each of your concerns one by one.

1. Repeated Testing and Eye Safety: It’s understandable to be concerned about the repeated testing of your optic nerve. Generally, the tests performed during an eye examination, including those for glaucoma, are designed to be safe and non-invasive. The fact that you underwent the test multiple times due to the technician's unfamiliarity with the equipment should not cause any harm to your eyes. These tests, such as visual field tests or optical coherence tomography (OCT), are typically safe and do not damage the eye. However, if you experience any discomfort or unusual symptoms following the tests, it’s always best to consult your eye care professional.

2. Follow-Up Recommendations: Your doctor’s assessment that your optic nerve appearance does not strongly indicate glaucoma is reassuring. The recommendation for semi-annual follow-ups to monitor any changes in your optic nerve is a standard practice in ophthalmology. Glaucoma can progress slowly, and regular monitoring allows for early detection of any changes that may require intervention. If your doctor believes that even if glaucoma were to develop, it could be managed effectively with medication without significant impact on your vision, you can feel more at ease with this plan. However, it’s essential to remain vigilant about any changes in your vision or eye health and communicate these to your doctor during your follow-ups.

3. Use of Eye Drops: Regarding the artificial tears you were prescribed, it’s crucial to be cautious with any medication if you have a potential risk for glaucoma. Some eye drops can indeed increase intraocular pressure, which is a concern for glaucoma patients. If your doctor has prescribed these drops, it’s likely they believe the benefits outweigh the risks in your specific case. However, since you mentioned that the product's instructions advise against use for glaucoma patients, it would be prudent to consult your eye care provider before continuing with the drops. They may suggest alternative lubricating eye drops that are safe for individuals with glaucoma or provide guidance on how to manage your dry eyes without compromising your eye health.

In summary, while the repeated testing should not have harmed your eyes, it’s essential to follow your doctor’s recommendations for monitoring your optic nerve. Regular follow-ups are a proactive approach to managing your eye health. Lastly, always consult your healthcare provider regarding any medications or treatments, especially when there are specific concerns related to glaucoma. Your eye health is paramount, and open communication with your healthcare team will ensure you receive the best care possible. Thank you for your questions, and I wish you the best in maintaining your eye health!

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