Why is this procedure done?
Tonometry is an eye test. It measures the pressure of the fluid in your eye. This is your intraocular pressure. Tonometry is used to check for glaucoma. It is an eye disease that can cause you to become blind. This test may also be used to see if the treatment for glaucoma is working. ‚
What will the results be?
The doctor will have an exact measure of the pressure in your eyes. If the pressure is above normal, the doctor will decide what treatment is best. ‚
What happens before the procedure?
- Your doctor will take your history and examine the outer parts of your eyes. Talk to the doctor about:
- All the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor about any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
- Eye problems like drainage, pain, itching, decreased eyesight
- Any allergies to eye drops or ointment
- Any family history of glaucoma
- Questions you have about your eyes or the test
- Remove contact lenses before the exam.
What happens during the procedure?
- You will be awake and sitting in a special chair. The room lights will be low. The doctor may ask you to lean forward and rest your chin and forehead on a special lamp.
- There are many ways to check eye pressure. In one common way, a tool may blow a small puff of air on the eye. Other ways may use numbing drops first. Then, a small probe gently touches the eye. The test is repeated on the other eye.
- Each of these gives the doctor information about eye pressure.
- The procedure takes about 1 to 2 minutes.
What happens after the procedure?
- You may go back to your normal activities.
- Avoid rubbing the eyes for at least 30 minutes if any numbing eye drops were used.
What care is needed at home?
- Do not wear your contact lenses for at least 2 hours after the test.
- Always wash your hands before touching the eyes.
What follow-up care is needed?
- Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits. Your doctor will let you know if you need more tests or need to see an eye specialist.
- If the exam is normal, plan for another routine visit in 1 year.
What problems could happen?
- A scratch on the eye
- Allergic reaction
Helpful tips
Yearly tonometry is suggested for adults over 40 years old to help prevent blindness caused by glaucoma. ‚
Where can I learn more?
Glaucoma Research Foundation ‚
http://www.glaucoma.org/glaucoma/diagnostic-tests.php ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚