Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve. This is typically caused by an increase in eye pressure. The damage can eventually lead to vision loss. Although there is no cure for glaucoma, there are ways to manage it and slow its progression. At Vision i Care in Pasadena, TX, our experts diagnose glaucoma and will provide treatment options to slow the progression of the disease. Here are some common questions about glaucoma.
What Are the Two Types of Glaucoma?
Open-angle glaucoma is the more common form. It occurs when the fluid in your eyes drains slowly, which causes an increase in eye pressure.
Angle-closure glaucoma is less common and more severe. It occurs when the eye's drainage system becomes completely clogged, and the fluid cannot drain at all.
Who Is at Risk for Glaucoma?
Although anyone can develop glaucoma, certain factors put you at greater risk of developing this condition. These include:
- Having a family history of glaucoma
- Being extremely nearsighted or farsighted
- Medical conditions including heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and sickle cell anemia
- Being over the age of 60
- Previous eye surgery
- Being Hispanic, African-American or Asian
What Are the Symptoms of Glaucoma?
Open-angle glaucoma causes no early symptoms. If you don't see our optometrist often, you may not know you have it until permanent vision loss has occurred. When vision loss occurs, it is the peripheral vision that is lost first. As the condition progresses, tunnel vision can occur.
Angle-closure glaucoma causes your eye pressure to spike, which causes severe symptoms. These include:
- Severe headaches
- Eye pain
- Blurry vision
- Seeing halos around lights
- Redness of the eyes
- Nausea and vomiting
How Is Glaucoma Diagnosed?
Glaucoma can be diagnosed during an eye exam. Our eye doctor will check the pressure in your eyes. If it is elevated, we will run further tests to confirm the diagnosis, including:
- Gonioscopy to inspect the eye's drainage angle
- Pachymetry to measure the corneal thickness
- Vision field test to determine areas of vision loss
How Is Glaucoma Treated?
In the early stages of glaucoma, our eye doctor will prescribe eye drops to lower the pressure in your eyes. You may also need oral medications. As the condition progresses, you might require more invasive treatment. This includes laser surgery or drainage tubes for the eyes.
Schedule an Appointment with Our Optometrist in Pasadena, TX
Glaucoma is a serious condition and requires routine care. It is important to get regular eye exams so the condition can be caught early. If you are experiencing symptoms, visit our eye doctor right away. At Vision i Care in Pasadena, TX, our optometrist will help you manage your glaucoma and prevent further vision loss. We offer a variety of other eye care services as well. Call us today to schedule an appointment.