GLAUCOMA EMERGENCY REFERAL SERVICE (GERS)

Glaucoma is the name of a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve. The optic nerve transfers visual information from the eye to the brain and, if damaged, can result in sight loss and even blindness.

Glaucoma is a complicated disease and diagnosis is not always easy. Several different tests will be needed to assess damage to the optic nerve has occurred. In many cases, glaucoma is associated with high pressure within the eye.

For more information about this condition, please visit the Glaucoma UK website..

WHAT TO EXPECT

At your Appointment:

GERS optometrists have taken a further qualification in this area. The optometrist will discuss your eye history, symptoms, risk factors and any medical history. You should take your spectacles and a list of your current medication to the appointment.

The optometrist will look at the front and back of your eye and perform several checks. To enable them to repeat the eye pressure check and look at the back of your eyes, they will put an eye drop in your eye to numb the surface of the eye and dilate your pupils. Other tests conducted will include a visual fields test.

After your Appointment:

You will be found to not have glaucoma, nor be at risk of developing glaucoma in the foreseeable future and be discharged back to the care of your own optometrist, or
You will be found to have a diagnosis or strong risk of glaucoma and will be referred to the Hospital Eye Service for further assessment and management as appropriate.

A GERS APPOINTMENT REQUIRES DROPS TO BE USED, PLEASE DO NOT DRIVE TO YOUR APPOINTMENT.