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Glaucoma
is a disease of the optic nerve, which is
the part of the eye that carries the images
we see to the brain. The optic nerve is
made up of many nerve fibers, like an
electric cable containing numerous wires.
When pressure inside the eye increases,
damage to the optic nerve fibers may occur,
causing blind spots to develop. These blind
spots usually go undetected until the optic
nerve is significantly damaged. If the
entire nerve is destroyed, blindness
results.
Early detection and treatment by your
ophthalmologist are the keys to preventing
optic nerve damage and blindness from
glaucoma.
Causes of Glaucoma
Clear liquid, called aqueous humor,
circulates inside the front portion of the
eye. A small amount of this fluid is
produced constantly, and an equal amount
flows out of the eye through a microscopic
drainage system, maintaining a constant
level of pressure within the eye. (This
liquid is not part of the tears on the outer
surface of the eye.)
Because the eye is a closed structure, if
the drainage area for the aqueous humor -
called the drainage angle - is blocked, the
excess fluid cannot flow out of the eye.
Fluid pressure within the eye will increase,
pushing against the optic nerve and
potentially causing damage.
At Risk Group
Your ophthalmologist considers many kinds of
information to determine your risk for
developing the disease. The most important
risk factors include:
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Age
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Family history of glaucoma
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African ancestry
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Past eye injuries
Glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness
in the United States, especially for older
people. But loss of sight from glaucoma can
often be prevented with early treatment.
How Often Should You Get Tested
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If You Have No Risk
Factors For Glaucoma |
If You Have Risk
Factors for Glaucoma |
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Under 45 years old: |
Every 4 years |
Every 2 years |
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45 years & older: |
Every 2 years |
Every year |
Call Eyes Over Texas Eye Care Center at
281-398-0747 to schedule your
consultation today or use our convenient
online
appointment/consultation request form.
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