Basic Information Regarding Glaucoma San Antonio

By Daphne Bowen


It is essential that people consider eye health a top priority. After all, humans are only given one set. Many problems can develop in this body, especially in people who are older. Glaucoma is a problem caused by damage to the optic nerve. This can worsen over time and is often related to excess eye pressure. Many people inherit this condition, although it can develop in nearly anyone and some are at higher risk. Glaucoma San Antonio services and professionals can provide care solutions to glaucoma patients in San Antonio TX.

The pressure increase is known as intraocular pressure. It can damage the optic nerve over time. This is the nerve responsible for transmitting images to the brain. If it is damaged from high pressure, an individual will permanently lose vision as a result of his or her glaucoma. Without any treatment, this can lead to complete blindness within a short amount of time.

Most people who have this problem do not experience symptoms initially. In fact, they might not even have any pain from the increase in pressure. This is why it is important to regular see an eye doctor to be tested for any eye conditions. Treatment should be done promptly to prevent permanent loss of vision. People over 40 years old who have a history of glaucoma should have a complete eye exam done yearly. Some are at higher risk of this, including those with diabetes.

Glaucoma typically occurs if pressure in the eye increases. This might happen if eye fluid does not circulate normally in the eyes. This fluid, also called aqueous humor, is supposed to flow out of the eye through channels. If these become blocked, the fluid will build up.

The reason for the blockage is not known, although doctors do know it can be related to genetics. Other causes that may lead to this condition: eye injury, inflammatory conditions, blockage of blood vessels, infection or eye surgery. Typically the problem will be present in both of the eyes, but differ in its severity.

The two types of glaucoma: open-angle and angle-closure. Also known as wide-angle, open-angle glaucoma is the most common form of this. It occurs when the structures of the eye seem to be normal, but the fluid inside of it is not flowing as it should. With the angle-closure type, also known as acute or chronic, there is poor drainage caused by the angle between the cornea and iris. It is too narrow and blocks the iris, which leads to pressure buildup.

Typically this condition is present in adults over 40. However, it can also develop in infants, children and adults. People are more at risk based on their descent, old age, family history, poor vision, diabetes, use of steroid meds or trauma to eyes. Usually there are no symptoms, but some signs may be present, including: eye pain, vomiting or nausea, hazy-looking eyes, eye redness, tunnel vision, seeing halos around lights and loss of vision.

Treatment may vary. Often it involves laser surgery, eyedrops or microsurgery. Keep in mind that every situation and individual will differ. People should do research to become knowledgeable about this problem.




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