What's Involved with a Tonometry Test?
When you visit an optometrist for a routine examination, you may have noticed that they carry out a test where they aim a brief "puff" of air into your eyes. This can be a little disconcerting for some, although it is harmless and nonetheless important. What is this test, and what is the optometrist looking out for?
Conducting a Tonometry Test
In technical terms, this part of the examination is called a tonometry test, and it is designed to measure the pressure in your eye. It's an important test to make sure that the pressure level is within recommended parameters as, should it not be, this can often be an early indication of eye disease such as glaucoma.
Inside the eye is a jelly-like substance known as aqueous humor. It moves around to an extent, and a certain amount of it will flow into and out of your eye as time passes. This movement helps to keep the intraocular pressure in check, but sometimes, a tiny blockage in the back of the eye can cause an issue.
Replacing the More Traditional Tests
For decades now, optometrists have used the "puff" test to measure the amount of pressure. However, this specific test has now been replaced by a more accurate device that can gather information through direct contact with the eye. To administer this test, the optometrist will first put drops in the eye to numb it and will then gently touch the front surface with a hand-held instrument. In doing so, the instrument will apply a very small amount of pressure to the surface, giving the expert a precise reading for each eye.
Testing for Better Eye Health
The tonometry test is just one of several checks used by an optometrist during a routine eye examination. These tests can help them to build up an impression of your ocular health and give them a good record that they can refer to in subsequent visits. As such, everyone needs to schedule these visits whenever recommended, as it can often provide early warning of any potential problems that may arise in the future.
Scheduling Your Next Appointment
So, if you have not had the pressure in your eyes measured for some time, get in touch with your optician. After all, they may well have replaced the "puff" test with a more accurate and less spectacular device instead. Either way, you'll know that you are doing everything you can to avoid issues down the road.
For more information about eye exams, contact a local eye doctor.
When it comes to your body health, one of the most important parts to look after are your eyes because this is one item that cannot be repaired or replaced when they fail. As you age, your eyes change too, and I was not aware of that until my optometrist told me I needed bifocal glasses. I began this blog as a way of educating others over 40 about why you need to care for your eyes as you age. Cataracts, bifocal glasses, eyestrain and the need for regular eye check-ups are just a few of the subjects I will cover in my blog posts.