Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that can cause significant vision loss or blindness if left untreated. Understanding glaucoma and how to treat it is vital for protecting eye health and visual clarity. Neuro-Ophthalmology of Texas at Eye Wellness Center in Houston, TX, can detect and treat glaucoma in patients across the Houston, TX, area. Here are some frequently asked questions about glaucoma and how an ophthalmologist near you can treat it.
What Is Glaucoma, and What Causes It?
Glaucoma is a progressive eye condition in which the optic nerve in the back of the eye gets damaged. The eye has a drainage system for the fluid it produces. The eyes can receive high levels of intraocular pressure when the fluid does not drain correctly, causing damage to the optic nerve. Damage to the optic nerve leads to vision loss or eventual blindness.
Where Does Glaucoma Get the Name “The Silent Thief of Sight?”
Glaucoma gets this nickname due to the progressive nature of the condition. Glaucoma does not cause vision loss overnight. The condition progresses over some time and causes incremental vision loss that the eyes adjust to. Symptoms may be challenging or impossible to notice in the early stages due to the nature of glaucoma. Most people do not realize they have glaucoma until they have already lost some of their vision.
Is There a Way to Prevent Vision Loss From Glaucoma?
People cannot completely prevent glaucoma, but there are steps people can take to minimize the risk and impact of glaucoma. Yearly visits to an eye doctor near you for an eye exam can detect glaucoma early on. Early detection of glaucoma allows for treatment that stops it from progressing further. Additionally, taking care of the body by eating well, exercising, reducing caffeine, and controlling blood pressure can help.
What Is Involved With Glaucoma Treatment?
There are several glaucoma treatment techniques, beginning with prescription eye drops that help decrease intraocular pressure. There are several types of eye drops that work in different ways. An ophthalmologist near you will determine the best type of eye drops based on the severity and form of glaucoma. In addition to eye drops, various kinds of surgery and procedures are available for glaucoma. An ophthalmologist can discuss if surgery is the correct procedure for treating and managing glaucoma.
Am I at Risk of Developing Glaucoma?
Everyone has a chance of developing glaucoma, but some people are at a higher risk than others. Some risk factors include age, race, genetics, and having conditions like diabetes. Visiting an eye doctor near you can help determine any risk factors and provide insight into lowering the risk of glaucoma.
Get Glaucoma Treatment in Houston, TX, Today
Glaucoma can cause significant vision loss or even blindness if left untreated. Visiting an ophthalmologist near you can catch and treat glaucoma early on before leading to vision loss. Schedule a comprehensive eye exam at Neuro-Ophthalmology of Texas at Eye Wellness Center in Houston, TX, by calling (713) 942-2187.