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Glaucoma FAQs


Glaucoma is a serious condition of the eye. If glaucoma goes untreated, it can result in loss of peripheral vision, also known as side vision. In some cases, complete vision loss can occur. It is best to schedule yearly appointments with our ophthalmologists at Museum District Eye Center in Houston so that they can treat glaucoma right away should it arises.

schedule yearly appointments with our ophthalmologists at Museum District Eye Center in Houston so that they can treat glaucoma right away should it arises.


What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma occurs when the pressure in the eye increases. When this occurs, it can cause damage to the optic nerve, resulting in vision loss.

What Are the Types Of Glaucoma?

There are two types of glaucoma. The first is open-angle glaucoma, which is the most common. This type occurs when the drainage system of the eye becomes clogged like a slow drain. When the fluid cannot drain as quickly as it should, it causes an increase in eye pressure.

The second type is angle-closure glaucoma. This type occurs when the eye's drainage system becomes completely blocked, causing the pressure in the eyes to increase rapidly.

What Are the Symptoms Of Glaucoma?

Symptoms can vary for each person because it all depends on the type that you have. Open-angle glaucoma shows no early signs. This is why it has been nicknamed, “the silent thief of sight.” It isn't until permanent vision loss that a person will experience symptoms.

The symptoms of angle-closure glaucoma can come on suddenly. They include:

    • A sudden, severe headache
    • Severe pain in the eye
    • Blurry vision
    • Nausea and vomiting
    • Excessive tearing

How Is Glaucoma Diagnosed?

Since some forms of glaucoma can show no early symptoms, it is best that our doctors of optometry check your eye pressure during your yearly eye and vision exam. Our doctors may have to dilate your eyes to get a good look at your optic nerve. If our ophthalmologists diagnose you with glaucoma, a visual field test will be performed to determine how much, if any, of your side vision has been affected. Our eye doctors may also take photos of your optic nerve. This will allow the doctor to track the progression of the disease.

How Is Glaucoma Treated?

Glaucoma does not come with a cure, however, there are methods that can slow the progression of the glaucoma.

Eye drops are used often to control the pressure in the eye. Laser surgery is also a common treatment method. There are three types of laser surgery and the one that your eye doctor chooses, would depend on your condition and the severity. These include:

    • Trabeculoplasty: This procedure opens the drainage area.
    • Iridotomy: During this procedure, a tiny hole is made in the iris that would allow the fluid to flow freely.
    • Cyclophotocoagulation: This procedure is performed to reduce the amount of fluid produced by the eye.

Because glaucoma can be severe and can show no early signs, annual appointments with Museum District Eye Center in Houston are essential. Our doctors of optometry can create a glaucoma treatment plan to help slow the progression of the disease and save your eyesight. Call our optometry staff today at 713-333-0151.

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