Glaucoma Services
Most people never see it coming. Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of preventable blindness in the United States. Yet over 70,000 people lose their vision to glaucoma every year. In fact, two out of every 100 persons is affected by glaucoma.
Glaucoma is caused when the drainage system within the eye is blocked by trauma, hemorrhage, or a physiologic nature. An increase in pressure within the eye causes pressure to build around the sensitive optic nerve fibers, thus destroying the nerve and one’s vision.
Symptoms of glaucoma vary depending on the type, which include Chronic Open-Angle Glaucoma, Congenital Glaucoma, Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma, and Secondary Glaucoma.
- Chronic Open-Angle Glaucoma is the most common type and occurs primarily in persons over the age of 40. It develops as a result of aging and is symptomless, sometimes causing irreversible damage before it is discovered.
- Congenital Glaucoma is present at birth and caused by a defect in the eye’s draining system.
- Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma is caused when the colored portion of the eye presses against the drainage system and causes blockage. Symptoms include severe pain in and around the eye, nausea, blurred vision, and seeing rainbow-like halos.
- Secondary Glaucoma results from other health problems of the body or trauma to the eye.
Comprehensive yearly eye exams for those over 40, which include a measurement of pressure in the eye (tonometry), can detect glaucoma early and prevent irreversible damage. Damage to the optic nerve cannot be reversed, so early detection is crucial. Treatment of glaucoma includes medications such as eye drops or pills or, in some cases, laser treatment. Surgical procedures to form a new drainage channel in the eye are sometimes required when medication or laser treatments are not enough.
Our doctors are optometric glaucoma specialists licensed by the Texas Optometry Board. They will take the time to explain this eye condition to you and discuss treatment options. Early detection, education, and treatment are vital to ensure continued good vision. Understanding the condition and the importance of treatment and follow-up care is a shared responsibility.
Our facilities house the latest in glaucoma detection and disease tracking. We are proud to offer state-of-the-art computerized visual field testing, digital retina and optic nerve imaging, and scanning laser optic nerve analysis.
