Glaucoma screening

Glaucoma screening 2018-03-26T11:59:00+01:00

Glaucoma screening

Glaucoma is an eye condition that causes damage to the optic nerve.

Because this nerve is responsible for transmitting visual information from the eye to the relevant cortex in the brain, such damage can cause significant changes to the field of vision, leading to sight loss and even blindness if left untreated.

Although it is often associated with raised eye pressure, glaucoma can also occur when the pressure is normal, which means a series of different tests are required to accurately diagnose the condition.

There are two types of glaucoma:

  • Open angle glaucoma

    The most common form of the condition, open angle glaucoma affects 1-2% of over-40s in the UK. There are no symptoms in the early stages and it progresses slowly, gradually damaging the optic nerve and causing blind spots to develop in the field of vision. Early diagnosis is key to preventing these from enlarging and causing significant, irreversible visual problems. The treatment is often as simple as using special eye drops that can stop the condition from advancing.

  • Closed angle glaucoma

    The eye produces an aqueous fluid that drains out through the angle, acting as a kind of guttering system. Closed angle glaucoma occurs when the drainage system becomes blocked very quickly, causesing a rapid rise in pressure and resulting in uncomfortable symptoms including a painful red eye, nausea and blurred vision. Urgent medical attention and treatment is essential for such cases, so referral to the accident and emergency department is crucial.

Proactivity and in-depth examinations enable us to treat open angle glaucoma before it worsens

By using sophisticated diagnostic equipment, we can catch open angle glaucoma in the early stages before significant damage is caused. We recommend regular screening if you are over the age of 40, have a family history of the condition, are of Afro-Caribbean descent or if you suffer from myopia (short-sightedness) and/or diabetes, as studies have shown these factors increase the risk of developing the condition.

Our expert optometrists have extensive clinical experience and are highly trained in using advanced technology such as eye pressure measuring instruments and visual field testing equipment. This enables them to identify and monitor early changes to the optic nerve structure.

Contact us for more advice about glaucoma

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IN FOCUS

The Optomap is the only test that captures more than 80% of your retina in one panoramic image. The unique optomap ultra-wide view helps detect early signs of retinal disease more effectively and efficiently than with traditional eye examination alone. The test is fast and pain-free and nothing touches your eye.

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Monday – Friday 9:00 – 5:30
Saturday 9:00 – 4:00
Sunday Closed

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Harrow Practice

Northwood Practice

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Testimonials

‘My family have been attending Parker & Hammond for several years.
We all have differing needs but all receive an excellent, caring,
thorough service that is never rushed.’

'Each and every member of staff treats me with the utmost courtesy and patience.
The kind of service offered at Parker & Hammond is truly professional yet personal
and friendly – I would highly recommend them.'

‘Thanks to the expertise of the team at Parker & Hammond,
I finally feel that after 30 years of struggling with various lenses,
my keratoconus is finally, at long last, a problem solved.’

‘The quality of care and advice I have received has been first class and I would
have no hesitation in recommending the practice.’

‘From the moment I stepped into the shop I was given first class service,
made to feel valued and had the most thorough eye test I’ve had to date.
Dipesh provided valuable explanations and information as he carried out the test,
and I purchased a pair of Lindberg glasses, with which I am very pleased.’

‘Finding a good opticians who you can trust and who understands your eye needs isn’t easy,
and I would recommend them to anyone – particularly those with keratoconus.’

‘I have been wearing glasses for over 15 years and have been to many opticians in the past,
but Parker & Hammond have by far been the best. Their staff are excellent and they give
me honest, sound advice which I have always trusted. The eye test is very thorough
and the optometrists do their best to make you feel relaxed and comfortable.’

‘I would highly recommend Parker & Hammond – professional, courteous and friendly,
from everyone who I come into contact with during my visits.’

‘The opticians here are really friendly and patient, they take the time to answer my questions,
give useful advice and – unlike other places I’ve been to in the past – the costs are fully explained.’

‘The service I receive whenever I come into this shop is outstanding.
I would and do recommend to all who will listen!’

‘Although the road to keratoconus solutions is sometimes trying, you know you have
a specialist here who will truly work tirelessly to find one.’

‘My family have been customers here for many years, brought back every time by impeccable
customer service, attention and professionalism. All staff are welcoming and have a full
understanding of the products, with information given throughout the spectacle purchase.’

‘For the past ten years Parker & Hammond have been my opticians of choice, from the warmth and efficiency met with at reception
to the unstinting care and detail at the eye test stage. In assistance with frame choice and dedication to guaranteeing comfort with your spectacles,
Parker & Hammond have proved themselves to be the best I have encountered. Add that to superb aftercare and you have the recipe for satisfaction
and perfect confidence that your eyecare could not have been in better hands. I have recommended them in the past and will continue to do so – wholeheartedly.’

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simply get in touch or use our online booking service.

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