In the United States, glaucoma is the second most common cause of blindness. Because it usually develops without symptoms, it’s very important that you have a comprehensive eye exam regularly. Trang Dao, OD, at InFocus Vision specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma. If you have concerns about eye health, call and schedule an appointment at either the Fort Worth or Cedar Hill, Texas, office for an examination or use the online booking button.
Glaucoma Q & A
What is glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a broad medical term that refers to a group of conditions that cause optic nerve damage due to an increase in pressure in the eye. Your optic nerve transmits the messages from your eye to your brain, and damage to the nerve can result in blindness.
You may be more at risk of developing glaucoma if you have a family history or if you’re over age 60. Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or hypertension, may also increase your risk, as well as the use of certain medications such as corticosteroids.
What are the different types of glaucoma?
There are many different types of glaucoma. Identifying the type of glaucoma may determine treatment.
Primary glaucoma
Primary glaucoma is the most common type of glaucoma and can cause you to lose portions of your vision before you notice any vision problems. This type of glaucoma develops slowly and painlessly over time.
Secondary glaucoma
Secondary glaucoma usually develops after an injury to the eye or from a medical condition.
Angle-closure glaucoma
Angle-closure glaucoma, also known as closed-angle glaucoma, is uncommon, but can result in vision changes in a very short period of time and requires emergency medical care.
Normal-tension or low-tension glaucoma
With normal- or low-tension glaucoma, optic nerve damage occurs despite normal eye pressure.
How do I know if I have glaucoma?
Your optometrist can determine if you have glaucoma during your comprehensive eye exam. Dr. Dao is a glaucoma specialist and performs a number of tests to assess eye health and risk of glaucoma. Some special tests may include:
- Tonometry: measures eye pressure
- Pachymetry: measures cornea thickness to assess the risk of glaucoma
- Visual field test: determines if glaucoma has affected your vision
Dr. Dao may also recommend special diagnostic testing with Optomap® imaging to monitor changes in your eye over time and risk of visual changes from your glaucoma.
What is the treatment for glaucoma?
Glaucoma can’t be cured, but Dr. Dao can provide treatment to help prevent progression of the condition to preserve your vision. Treatment is usually aimed at reducing eye pressure, which can be managed with medication. If Dr. Dao isn’t able to slow the progression of nerve damage or reduce eye pressure, she may recommend surgery.
For expert eye care and management of glaucoma, call today to schedule an appointment with the specialists at InFocus Vision, or schedule your appointment using the online booking button.
