Glaucoma

A glaucoma eye exam includes several tests that check eye pressure, the optic nerve, and vision changes linked to glaucoma. These evaluations help ophthalmologists detect glaucoma early, often before noticeable symptoms appear. At Kings Eye Center, our clinical team uses comprehensive eye exams to assess glaucoma risk and create personalized care plans for patients in Hanford and throughout Kings County. 

Quick Takeaways 

  • Glaucoma is an eye disease that can damage the optic nerve and affect vision.  
  • A glaucoma exam checks eye pressure, optic nerve health, and peripheral vision.  
  • Early glaucoma often has no warning signs, making regular eye exams important.  
  • Treatment options can include eye drops, laser procedures, or surgery when needed.  
  • Kings Eye Center provides glaucoma evaluations and treatment options for local patients.  

What happens during a glaucoma eye exam?

A glaucoma eye exam involves several painless tests that evaluate different parts of your eye. The goal is to identify changes that may indicate glaucoma and determine whether treatment or ongoing monitoring is needed. 

During an appointment at Kings Eye Center, patients often ask if a glaucoma test only measures eye pressure. Eye pressure is an important part of glaucoma testing, but it is only one piece of the evaluation. Some patients develop glaucoma with normal eye pressure, while others have higher pressure without developing glaucoma. 

To help patients better understand what to expect, Dr. Cecilia Hernández explains what happens during a glaucoma evaluation, including the different tests used to assess eye health and detect potential signs of glaucoma. Watch the video to learn more about the process. 
 
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, glaucoma affects the optic nerve and can lead to permanent vision loss if it is not detected and managed. 

What tests are included in a glaucoma exam? 

How is eye pressure checked? 

Tonometry measures the pressure inside your eye. This quick test helps doctors identify elevated intraocular pressure, which is a major risk factor for glaucoma. 

How does the doctor check the optic nerve? 

Your ophthalmologist examines the optic nerve at the back of your eye to look for signs of damage. Imaging technology may also be used to create detailed measurements that help track changes over time. 

Why is a visual field test performed? 

A visual field test checks your side vision, which glaucoma often affects first. This test helps determine whether glaucoma has caused changes in your field of vision. 

Who should get tested for glaucoma? 

Glaucoma risk increases with age, family history, certain medical conditions, and other eye-related factors. Many people do not notice symptoms until vision loss has already occurred. 

A comprehensive eye exam helps identify glaucoma before significant damage develops. The National Eye Institute explains that early detection and treatment can help protect vision by slowing disease progression. Learn more from the National Eye Institute’s glaucoma information

At Kings Eye Center, patients from Hanford and surrounding Kings County communities receive complete glaucoma evaluations that include risk assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning. 

How is glaucoma treated after diagnosis? 

Treatment depends on the type and severity of glaucoma. Options may include prescription eye drops, laser treatments, or surgical procedures designed to lower eye pressure and protect the optic nerve. 

The ophthalmology team at Kings Eye Center provides glaucoma care alongside comprehensive eye services. Patients can learn more about glaucoma evaluations and treatment options through the Glaucoma services at Kings Eye Center

What should you expect after a glaucoma exam? 

After testing is complete, your eye doctor reviews the results and explains whether you need treatment, additional monitoring, or follow-up visits. Regular exams help track changes and support long-term eye health. 

Patients looking for local eye care can visit the Kings Eye Center Hanford office for glaucoma evaluations and comprehensive ophthalmology services. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Glaucoma Testing

A glaucoma eye exam is painless. Tests such as eye pressure measurements, optic nerve evaluations, and visual field testing help doctors assess eye health without discomfort.

Yes. Glaucoma often develops without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. Regular comprehensive eye exams help detect changes before significant vision loss occurs. 

The recommended frequency depends on your age, risk factors, and eye health history. An eye doctor can recommend an exam schedule based on your individual needs.

No. High eye pressure increases glaucoma risk but does not always mean a person has glaucoma. Doctors evaluate eye pressure along with optic nerve health and vision testing.

Glaucoma cannot be reversed, but treatment can help manage the condition and protect remaining vision. Early diagnosis allows doctors to create an appropriate treatment plan.

Reviewed by the clinical team at Kings Eye Center. Last reviewed: July 2026. The information in this article is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for a comprehensive eye examination by a qualified eye care professional. 

If you are looking for glaucoma testing in Hanford or Kings County, Kings Eye Center provides comprehensive glaucoma evaluations and personalized eye care. Schedule an appointment at Kings Eye Center or call (559) 585-3937.