Normal Tension Glaucoma

[Evenstar]

Has anyone been diagnosed with this? I was referred for loss of visual field around 18 months ago. As the pressure in the affected eye was normal I was passed over to the stable glaucoma clinic. At today’s check up they found another gap had appeared in my peripheral vision. Has anyone had this? What was the outcome, I am probably going to be seen by the consultant again.

The only abnormality in the eye is a tilted optic nerve, which it was decided was probably always there. I am concerned that as the pressure is normal that the prognosis may not be good.

[CMOTDibbler]

A friend has this, as does his dad. It seems like its not as easy to treat as regular glaucoma, but still there is lots that can be done

[Evenstar]

Thank you that’s reassuring. I was due an eye test anyway so I am seeing the optician today and hope I will be able to chat it over with her and of course repeat the field test. They did say that sometimes it can be a false result.

[suzr]

I have a google alert on "normal tension" glaucoma and it took me to your post. I have normal tension glaucoma. If at all possible, you need to see an ophthalmologist that is a glaucoma specialist. Not an optometrist. How are they are measuring your pressure. In most ophthalmologist’s offices, eye pressure is measured using “Goldmann applanation tonometry,” and this is considered a “gold standard” eye pressure measurement. They should not be using the air puff method. If they give you eye drops, take them faithfully-NEVER MISS! The visual field tests are usually fairly accurate as they can detect mistakes during the test. Good luck to you!

[Evenstar]

Thank you I had that test yesterday where the probe is placed on the eye, today it was the puff of air one but gave identical results. My optician thinks that the field test could have been inaccurate as they put lenses in front of my eyes, the same strength as my current glasses yesterday and my prescription has changed (that was what I wanted to check out) and also I am used to wearing contact lenses which do give you a greater visual field. She has suggested I should get my contact lens prescription updated and then ask to take it next time with my contact lenses in and with the new reading glasses she has prescribed.

I will wait to hear from the hospital and hope it is better news when I take the test again.

[underneaththeash]

OP - some tilted discs can cause a small visual field abnormality. It's worth mentioning that to the consultant when you see him.