Understanding Glaucoma: What Every Patient Should Know

Glaucoma is a silent thief of sight, often progressing without symptoms until significant vision loss has occurred. As one of the leading causes of blindness, it’s a serious condition that requires early detection and consistent management. At Texas State Optical Stone Oak, we believe in educating our patients in San Antonio and surrounding areas about the risks of glaucoma, how to recognize potential warning signs, and what can be done to protect vision for years to come.

What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, typically due to increased pressure in the eye. The optic nerve is essential for sending visual information from your eyes to your brain, and any damage can lead to permanent vision loss.

The most common type, open-angle glaucoma, progresses gradually and is often undetected until vision is significantly affected. Angle-closure glaucoma, though less common, can develop suddenly and cause intense symptoms like eye pain, nausea, and blurred vision.

Who Is at Risk?

While anyone can develop glaucoma, certain factors increase the risk:

•          Age: Those over 60 are at higher risk, especially seniors in San Antonio who may not realize the importance of routine eye exams.

•          Family History: If glaucoma runs in your family, your risk is significantly higher.

•          Medical Conditions: Diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease can all contribute to an increased risk.

•          Ethnicity: African Americans, Hispanics, and Asians have a higher prevalence of glaucoma.

•          Eye Health Factors: High eye pressure, thin corneas, or previous eye injuries can also be contributing factors.

Why Early Detection Is Crucial

Many patients assume that if their vision seems fine, their eyes must be healthy. Unfortunately, glaucoma rarely shows symptoms in the early stages, meaning you could have the disease for years before noticing any vision changes. By the time symptoms appear, irreversible vision loss has already occurred.

Regular comprehensive eye exams are the best way to detect glaucoma early. We use advanced diagnostic technology to measure eye pressure, examine the optic nerve, and check for early signs of glaucoma.

Managing Glaucoma to Preserve Vision

While there is no cure for glaucoma, treatment can slow its progression and help prevent blindness. Treatment options may include:

•          Prescription eye drops to lower eye pressure

•          Oral medications in some cases

•          Laser therapy or surgery to improve fluid drainage in the eye

Our team tailors glaucoma management to each patient’s specific needs, ensuring the best possible outcomes for maintaining sight.

Protect Your Vision at Texas State Optical Stone Oak

If you’re over 40, have a family history of glaucoma, or are experiencing any unusual vision changes, don’t wait to get checked. Glaucoma may not show symptoms early on, but early detection is the key to saving your vision. We’re here to provide comprehensive, personalized eye care to adults and seniors in San Antonio and the surrounding communities.

Schedule a glaucoma screening with Texas State Optical Stone Oak to take a proactive approach to protecting your sight. Visit our office in San Antonio, Texas, or call (210) 490-3937 to book an appointment today.