Glaucoma Care From Our Austin Optometrist

At Austin Vision Center, our dedicated and skilled Austin optometrist team consisting of Dr. Hutson and Dr. Marshall is here to help with the diagnosis, treatment, and management of any number of eye diseases. Glaucoma is among the most common eye diseases our optometrists see and treat here in our office. The key to successfully treating glaucoma and preventing permanent vision loss is to diagnose it as early as possible.

Commonly Asked Questions About Glaucoma

Despite glaucoma being a relatively common eye disease that millions suffer from at some point in their lives, many people don't understand what glaucoma is or how it can affect eye and vision health. 

What is glaucoma?

Glaucoma occurs when excessive pressure builds up in the eye and begins to affect the optic nerve, which runs through both eyes. When this nerve becomes compressed, vision loss and even blindness can result. Unfortunately, if left untreated, the effects can be permanent.

What are the symptoms of glaucoma?

Many people do not exhibit any obvious symptoms of glaucoma, which is why it's always a good idea to be screened for it during your annual eye exam. The people who do experience symptoms tend to report changes in vision, blurry vision, and even occasional sharp eye pain. Unfortunately, by the time symptoms do become noticeable, it is possible that glaucoma has been progressing for many years.

Who is at risk of developing glaucoma?

Anybody can develop glaucoma, though people over the age of 40 tend to be at the highest risk. Furthermore, those with a family history of glaucoma may be more likely to develop it at some point in their lives. This is yet another reason why regular screening is so important, especially among those who already have risk factors.

How can I be proactive against glaucoma?

Having your eye doctor screen you for glaucoma annually is the best way to be proactive against the disease, though there is no guaranteed way to prevent it. A simple tool can be used by optometrists to quickly and painlessly measure pressure levels in each eye and determine whether or not they're normal. The key to successful treatment and management of glaucoma is to have it diagnosed early.

What treatment options are available?

There are many treatment options available for glaucoma, though your eye doctor will recommend the best treatment for you based on the severity of your glaucoma and other factors. Beta blocker medications can sometimes be used to lower and manage pressure levels in the eyes, though sometimes laser surgery is required for more severe cases of the disease.

Schedule a Glaucoma Screening With Our Optometrist in Austin, Texas

If you're due for a glaucoma screening or are looking for treatment for glaucoma, don't hesitate to schedule your eye care appointment with our optometrist in Austin, Texas. To find out more about our glaucoma treatment options or to schedule your screening, give Austin Vision Center a call at (512) 477-2282 today.