Enlarged Optic Nerve

Hi,

I have seen the same eye doctor for the last
4 years and she has done extensive glaucoma
testing.  She says my pressures are on the high
end of normal so she doesnt recommend drops
but she did say an OCT showed my optic nerves
to be enlarged (55-60% versus 40% which is what
I was told is normal.)  She did say that because
my eyes and optic nerves have not changed any
during the last few years that it could be normal
for me so she says I should not be worried.
Unfortunately I am a worrier!  Is it uncommon
for your optic nerves to be swollen yet your
eyes still be healthy.  I would appreciate any
advice.

Thank you,
starr363

[Houman Vosoghi, MD]

I don't thing the optic nerves are swollen.  It sounds like you have asymmetric cupping or excavation of the optic nerves.  This could be an indication of early glaucoma or physiologic in that you are one of those patients who occasionaly have a difference between the two eyes.  You should still be considered a glaucoma suspect and observed every 4-6 months though and need to make sure your corneal thickness falls into the average range or thicker.  If you are worried, make sure to see a glaucoma specialist for a second opinion (assuming your ophthalmologist is not a glaucoma specialist).

HV