Glaucoma
Get treatment for glaucoma with Round Rock Eye Consultants
Glaucoma
What Is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is an eye condition that causes damage to the optic nerves responsible for sending visual signals from the eye to the brain. This damage is commonly attributed to a buildup of pressure in the eye, known as intraocular pressure. Glaucoma is believed to be genetic and it commonly occurs in older individuals. It is degenerative, which means the condition worsens with time until permanent vision loss occurs, usually within a few years after symptoms appear.
Glaucoma Causes
When the aqueous humor — which is the fluid inside the eye — is unable to flow throughout the eye due to a blockage in the mesh-like channel through which it is meant to flow, a pressure build-up occurs. The exact cause of this blockage is mostly unknown; however, the general consensus is that it is mostly genetic. Other less common causes of glaucoma may include:
- A blunt force injury to the eye
- Chemical injuries
- Severe eye infections
- Inflammatory conditions
- Some eye surgeries to correct other conditions.
- Glaucoma commonly affects both eyes. However, it is likely to be much worse in one eye compared to the other.
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How Is Glaucoma Diagnosed?
Your Round Rock ophthalmologist will carry out a simple and painless test to detect glaucoma. The eye test typically involves dilating the pupils using eye drops to make it easier for the doctor to examine them. The doctor subsequently checks for damage to the optic nerves. Glaucoma diagnosis may require multiple visits. Photographs of your eyes will be taken during your first visit and are compared to new photographs at your next appointment to spot differences. A tonometry test may also be carried out. This is done to determine the eye pressure. If your eye doctor suspects glaucoma, special imaging tests may be carried out to determine the condition of your optic nerves.
Protect Your Eyes From Glaucoma
Glaucoma can be damaging to your eyes, but with services from Round Rock Eye Consultants, you can keep your eyes protected. Learn more about the screening process, diagnosis, and treatment options when you call our office in Round Rock today!
Schedule a Test Now
In many cases, people with glaucoma don’t show any symptoms. This is particularly true for patients with open-angle glaucoma. By the time symptoms appear, it is usually too late and a partial loss of side vision may have occurred already. This is why regular eye tests are recommended. Schedule a test with your physician to catch early signs of glaucoma before the condition degenerates further.