Glaucoma is an eye condition that causes damage to your eye’s optic nerve and gets worse over time. It is a common disease that is often (but not always) associated with high pressure in your eye.
It is sometimes referred to as the "Silent Thief of Sight" because there is usually no pain or noticeable symptoms until very late in its course and it is one of the leading causes of vision loss worldwide.
Because of this, if there is a family history of glaucoma or if you are over 60 years of age, it is important to have an annual comprehensive eye exam with our glaucoma doctor.
Not all of the underlying mechanisms for the development of glaucoma are understood; however, we do know that age and genetic factors play the largest role. A family history is an extremely important risk factor.
Other contributing factors are trauma, congenital defects, certain medications (especially cortisone), and certain inherent conditions of the eye such as extreme far-sightedness or the development of an advanced cataract.
Glaucoma is a complex disease process, but it is very treatable if monitored closely by one of our doctors every 4 to 6 months. With careful follow-up, most people who are diagnosed with glaucoma will go on to have a normal life with a very functional vision.
Glaucoma doctors agree that symptoms can occur suddenly and may include:
These symptoms also can be a sign of other eye problems.
If you have any of these symptoms, call our San Antonio glaucoma specialists at ☎ (210) 806-0022 or contact us online to schedule a comprehensive eye exam with Dr. Baribeau, or visit the emergency room immediately so steps can be taken to prevent permanent vision loss.
Many treatments are available to control glaucoma, and new procedures are continually being developed. Daily medicated eye drops are probably the most common first approach, although laser treatments have been shown to be equally effective. Most people are managed effectively with either of these approaches; however, in serious cases, surgery is required to prevent progressive visual loss.
To schedule your consultation with the best glaucoma specialist in San Antonio, TX, please call our office at ☎ (210) 806-0022 or contact us online!
Baribeau Cataract and Laser
4025 East Southcross Blvd, Building 4, Suite 20
San Antonio, TX 78222
Phone:
(210) 806-0022
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