Diagnosing Eyesight Failure

Most eyesight related conditions are detected as part of a normal eye exam. It is therefore important to schedule regular eye checks after age 40.

Eyesight Failure Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Eyesight Failure mainly based on patient history.

Glaucoma

Screening for glaucoma is usually performed as part of a standard eye examination performed by ophthalmologists and optometrists.

Testing for glaucoma should include measurements of the intraocular pressure via tonometry, changes in size or shape of the eye, and an examination of the optic nerve to look for any visible damage to it, or change in the cup-to-disc ratio.

If there is any suspicion of damage to the optic nerve, a formal visual field test should be performed.

Scanning laser ophthalmoscopy may also be performed.

Macular Degeneration Symptoms

Macular degeneration is typified by:

• Blurred vision - may be a gradual loss or a rapid onset of vision loss.
• Central scotomas - shadows or missing areas of vision
• Distorted vision - a grid of straight lines appears wavy and parts of the grid may appear blank.
• Trouble discerning colors - especially between colors of similar darkness or lightness.
• Slow recovery - of visual function after exposure to bright light
  

Macular Degeneration can be tested with the Amsler Grid. This simple and effective test helps to monitor the function of the macula or central area of vision.

Video Amsler Grid [1:22]

Fluorescein angiography - is also used to identify and localize any abnormal vascular processes. Optical coherence tomography is now used by most ophthalmologists in the diagnosis and the followup evaluation of the response to treatment by using either Avastin or Lucentis which are injected into the vitreous of the eye at various intervals.

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