Glaucoma Eye Care with Our Conroe, TX, Eye Doctor

Glaucoma affects millions of Americans. In fact, it’s one of the top causes of blindness. And unfortunately, it’s irreversible. That’s why it’s so important to screen for glaucoma regularly. Our team at Today’s Vision discusses what a glaucoma screening can include and why it’s so essential below.  

Understanding Glaucoma

One of the main reasons that glaucoma causes so many people to go blind is that symptoms don’t appear suddenly. They come on gradually and they often go unnoticed. As such, a person in the early stages of glaucoma doesn’t realize that they need to visit an eye doctor or begin treatment.

Glaucoma is often thought of as something that only comes with age. And though it is more common in older adults, there is more than one type of glaucoma and it can occur at any point.

Open-angle glaucoma is the most common form, and it is usually found in older adults. Congenital glaucoma is something a child is born with or that develops very early in life.

Closed-angle is another type of glaucoma. It can come on very suddenly and cause blindness in a matter of days unless it is treated. 

Screening for Glaucoma

Your eye doctor will screen for glaucoma during a comprehensive eye exam. The screening will include several methods to gauge the following.

Eye Pressure

Increased pressure in the eye is a potential sign of glaucoma. By detecting high pressure early, your optometrist can begin treatment to lower it.

Field of Vision

A visual field test lets your eye doctor know if glaucoma has already affected your vision.

Optic Nerve

Glaucoma can significantly impact the optic nerve. During your glaucoma eye care exam, your optometrist will typically dilate your eyes. This will give them a full view of your optic nerve to determine if it has been affected.

Thickness of the Cornea

While it’s not always an indication, a thin cornea has been associated with a higher chance of developing glaucoma. That’s why an essential part of your eye exam will measure the thickness of your cornea.

Angle

The angle of your eye refers to where the cornea and the iris meet. Whether this area is wide and open or closed and narrow can indicate your risk of developing glaucoma. 

If these tests reveal that the development of glaucoma is a threat to you, your eye doctor will work with you to prevent it or slow the progression. 

Visit Your Conroe, TX, Optometrist for a Comprehensive Eye Exam

If you’re concerned about developing glaucoma, schedule a comprehensive eye exam with our optometrist at Today’s Vision by calling (936) 788-2600.