Glaucoma Screening and Management in Frisco, TX
Glaucoma is often called the "silent thief of sight" because it can progress without symptoms, leading to vision loss. This serious eye condition affects millions globally and is one of the leading causes of blindness. Optical Zone provides comprehensive care to detect and manage glaucoma, preserving your vision and quality of life.
What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, responsible for transmitting visual information from the retina to the brain. This damage is usually due to high intraocular pressure (IOP), although glaucoma can occur even with normal IOP. The optic nerve damage leads to vision loss, starting with peripheral vision and potentially leading to total blindness if not treated.
Types of Glaucoma
- Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma: The most common form, characterized by a gradual increase in eye pressure over time. It often has no symptoms until vision loss occurs.
- Angle-Closure Glaucoma:Less common but more severe, this type occurs suddenly due to a rapid increase in eye pressure. Symptoms include severe eye pain, nausea, and blurred vision, making it a medical
- Normal-Tension Glaucoma:Despite normal eye pressure, optic nerve damage still occurs. The exact cause is unknown but may involve a sensitive optic nerve or reduced blood supply.
- Congenital Glaucoma: This rare form is present at birth due to improper development of the eye’s drainage channels.
- Secondary Glaucoma:This type results from another condition, such as diabetes, eye injury, inflammation, or advanced cataracts.
The Importance of Early Detection
Early detection of glaucoma is crucial because the disease often progresses without noticeable symptoms. When symptoms become apparent, irreversible damage to the optic nerve may have already occurred. Early detection allows for timely intervention, which can slow the progression of the disease and preserve vision.
Optical Zone’s Glaucoma Testing
Detection of glaucoma typically involves a comprehensive eye examination that includes several specific tests:
- Tonometry: Measures the intraocular pressure (IOP) to detect elevated levels, a significant risk factor for glaucoma.
- Ophthalmoscopy: This allows our optometrist to examine the optic nerve for signs of damage.
- Perimetry (Visual Field Test): Assesses the complete field of vision to detect any loss of peripheral vision.
- Gonioscopy: Examines the angle in the eye where the iris meets the cornea, helping to determine the type of glaucoma.
- Pachymetry:Measures the thickness of the cornea, which can influence IOP readings and glaucoma risk.
Treatment and Management of Glaucoma
While glaucoma cannot be cured, its progression can be managed with early detection and treatment. Optical Zone offers various options for treating glaucoma, including:
- Medications: Prescription eye drops to lower eye pressure.
- Laser Therapy:Procedures such as trabeculoplasty and iridotomy to improve fluid drainage from the eye.
- Surgery Co-Management:In cases where medications and laser therapy are insufficient, surgical options like trabeculectomy or glaucoma drainage implants may be recommended.
Our eye doctor is committed to providing personalized care to manage glaucoma. We aim to preserve your vision and maintain your quality of life through comprehensive care.
Schedule an Eye Exam in Frisco
If you’re at risk for glaucoma or haven’t had an eye exam recently, schedule an appointment with Optical Zone. Early detection through regular eye exams is your best defense against the sight-stealing effects of glaucoma. Contact us to book your comprehensive eye exam and take the first step toward protecting your vision.