Glaucoma Explained in San Antonio, TX

Glaucoma refers to a category of disorders that can hurt the eye's optic nerve, which is responsible for transferring visual stimuli to the brain. If neglected, glaucoma can lead to blind spots and/or total blindness. It is almost always due to increased pressure within the eye from fluid buildup.

Glaucoma primarily affects those over the age of 60. Today, about two million U.S. citizens have glaucoma; however, many of them are undiagnosed. In the beginning, glaucoma has no noticeable symptoms and is often called the “silent thief." Though a cure hasn't been developed for the condition, it can be slowed with early detection and the right therapies.

This condition is a primary reason why undergoing comprehensive eye exams no less than every two years is critical to your general ocular health. At Texas State Optical Bandera, we have state-of-the-art diagnostic techniques and are broadly knowledgeable about the most innovative management methods. If you are over 40 years of age, contact our San Antonio, TX practice to schedule your exam and get ahead of managing your ocular health.

Several factors can increase the risk of developing glaucoma. Age is a significant risk factor, particularly for individuals over 60. A family history of glaucoma can also predispose someone to the condition, highlighting a genetic link. Medical conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease are associated with higher glaucoma risk. Additionally, certain eye conditions, including high intraocular pressure, thin corneas, and severe nearsightedness, can contribute to its development. Racial background is also important, with African Americans, Asians, and Hispanics being more susceptible. Previous eye injuries and long-term corticosteroid use can further elevate the risk.

All types of glaucoma are caused by the deterioration of the optic nerve. Nearly always, this deterioration is due to increased intraocular pressure from problems with eye fluid drainage. In normally functioning eyes, the fluid needed by the eye tissue can easily transfer to different areas through a remarkable tissue, the trabecular meshwork, which sits between the iris and the cornea. In some cases, this movement can become obstructed or extremely slow, which results in fluid buildup.

The two main kinds of glaucoma are categorized according to the condition of the trabecular meshwork and the width of the space between the cornea and iris. If the fluid buildup is happening because of a problem in the trabecular meshwork, it is considered open-angle glaucoma. If the buildup is related to the space between the iris and cornea being too small or obstructed, this is called narrow- or closed-angle glaucoma. Studies have proven that glaucoma caused by intraocular pressure can run in families. Other than genes and age, more factors that can influence internal eye pressure include excessive use of corticosteroid eye drops, abnormally thin corneal tissue, being African American, Hispanic, or Asian, and having particular medical conditions, including diabetes mellitus. However, glaucoma can be related to issues other than eye pressure. When this occurs, it is considered secondary glaucoma because it is a symptom of a separate, primary condition.

Glaucoma is typically diagnosed through a comprehensive eye exam that includes several tests. Each test is simple, painless, and takes only a few minutes to complete. First, Dr. Perez will expand the pupils and possibly numb the eyes using no-sting eye drops. We then measure your intraocular pressure (IOP) to determine if it is elevated, which is a key indication of glaucoma. Additionally, we will examine the optic nerve for any damage or abnormalities and test your peripheral vision to identify potential blind spots. Our San Antonio, TX practice also offers the latest in advanced imaging technology to further assess and monitor your condition.