Glaucoma Explained in San Antonio, TX

Today, about two million people in the U.S. have glaucoma, and many of them do not know it. Called the "silent thief of vision," glaucoma is the term for a group of disorders that harms the optic nerve. The optic nerve has a critical role in transferring visual data to the brain. If left untreated, glaucoma could cause permanent blind spots and/or total blindness. This condition is almost always caused by increased pressure within the eye from fluid buildup.

Glaucoma is a major reason why undergoing comprehensive eye exams a minimum of every two years is vital to your overall eye health. At Eye Surgeon Direct, Dr. Kristin Held has the most up-to-date diagnostic methods, and she is highly trained in the most advanced treatment options. If you are past 40 years of age, please schedule an eye exam in San Antonio, TX, and get a head start on managing your ocular health.

Occurring because of genetics, corticosteroid eye drops, thin corneal tissue, heritage, or medical conditions, different glaucoma types often have no symptoms at all during the initial stages. In normal eyes, the fluid required by the eye tissue moves through a special tissue called the trabecular meshwork, which supports the area between the cornea and the iris. Sometimes, this movement may be hindered or become slow, which causes fluid buildup. This functional problem causes two common types, including open-angle glaucoma or narrow- or closed-angle glaucoma. As glaucoma starts to advance, patients may notice issues, like:

• Problems with peripheral vision
• Hazy eyesight
• Eye fatigue
• Redness
• Glare
• Eyes that ache
• Nausea

Dr. Held will conduct several tests to determine if you have glaucoma, including dilating the eyes, measuring your intraocular pressure, reviewing your corneal thickness, testing your peripheral vision, and assessing the optic nerves. Once diagnosed, we will prescribe your treatment based on the severity of your condition and needs. Glaucoma therapies may include prescription eye drops, laser treatment, or a surgical procedure to minimize intraocular pressure and damage to the optic nerve.

At Eye Surgeon Direct, we regularly perform consultations for individuals living with glaucoma to help manage the condition. It’s critical to receive early detection and treatment, which allows you to keep your symptoms under control. Dr. Held encourages anyone who has suspicious symptoms, a family history of glaucoma, or a current diagnosis of glaucoma to schedule an appointment at her San Antonio, TX ophthalmology center.