Glaucoma - “Silent thief of Sight”

Recognizing the Risks Before Losing Your Vision.

Glaucoma is a leading cause of vision loss worldwide — and one of the most preventable. Often called the “silent thief of sight,” this condition can progress slowly and painlessly, causing permanent vision damage before you even notice any symptoms.

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma refers to a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, the vital connection between your eyes and your brain. This damage is most often caused by an increase in intraocular pressure (IOP) — the pressure inside your eye. Usually, your eye continually produces a clear fluid called aqueous humor, which drains through a tiny channel. When this drainage system doesn’t function properly, fluid builds up and pressure increases, placing stress on the optic nerve. Over time, this can lead to gradual, irreversible vision loss, typically starting with your peripheral (side) vision.

Types of Glaucoma

There are several types of glaucoma, each with unique causes and characteristics:

Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma

The most common form, this type develops slowly as the eye’s drainage system becomes less efficient. There are usually no early symptoms, making routine eye exams essential.

Angle-Closure Glaucoma

Occurs when the eye’s drainage angle suddenly becomes blocked, causing a rapid rise in eye pressure. Symptoms may include severe eye pain, headache, blurred vision, and nausea.

This is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention.

Normal-Tension Glaucoma

Optic nerve damage occurs even though eye pressure remains within the normal

range. Poor blood flow or a particularly sensitive optic nerve may contribute to

this condition.

Secondary and Congenital Glaucoma

Some patients develop glaucoma due to another eye condition, injury, medication, or genetic factors present at birth.

Who Is at Risk?

Anyone can develop glaucoma, but you may be at higher risk if you:

• Are over 60 years old

• Have a family history of glaucoma

• Are of African, Asian, or Hispanic descent

• Have diabetes or high blood pressure

• Use corticosteroid medications long-term

Diagnosis and Treatment at Silas Eye Care

Because glaucoma often develops without symptoms, regular comprehensive eye exams are the best way to detect it early. At Silas Eye Care, we use state-of-the-art technology to measure intraocular pressure, assess the optic nerve, and evaluate your visual field for changes.

Our goal is to preserve your vision and prevent further damage. Depending on your diagnosis, your personalized treatment plan may include:

• Prescription eye drops to lower intraocular pressure

• Oral medications

• Laser procedures to improve fluid drainage

• Microsurgical treatments for advanced cases

Protect Your Sight with Expert Glaucoma Care

While glaucoma-related vision loss cannot be reversed, timely diagnosis and proper Management can help you maintain a clear vision for years to come.

Call us today or schedule an appointment to book your glaucoma screening with Silas Eye Care (Formerly Texas Eye Consultants, PLLC) at (409) 945-5511.