Glaucoma: Early Detection and Treatment Options for Protecting Your Vision

March is Save Your Vision Month, a perfect reminder for those in Houston and the surrounding areas to take their eye health seriously—especially when it comes to glaucoma. Known as the “silent thief of sight,” glaucoma develops gradually, often without noticeable symptoms, until significant vision loss has already occurred. At Montrose Eye Care, we’re dedicated to helping our community stay ahead of this condition through early detection and the most advanced treatment options available.

Why Early Detection Matters

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide, and the risk increases with age. However, here’s the challenge—most people don’t realize they have it until their peripheral vision starts to fade. The damage caused by glaucoma is irreversible, but with routine eye exams, we can detect early signs before they lead to vision loss.

If you’re in Houston or nearby neighborhoods, getting an annual comprehensive eye exam is one of the best ways to protect your vision. Our advanced diagnostic tools, including optical coherence tomography (OCT) and tonometry, help us catch even the smallest changes in your eye pressure and optic nerve health.

Who’s at Risk?

Glaucoma doesn’t discriminate, but certain factors can put you at higher risk:

• Age 40 and older (especially for African Americans, Hispanics, and Asians)

• Family history of glaucoma

• High eye pressure (IOP)

• Diabetes, hypertension, or other systemic health issues

• Long-term use of steroid medications

If you fall into any of these categories, scheduling an eye exam isn’t just a good idea—it’s essential.

Glaucoma Treatment Options

Once diagnosed, glaucoma can be managed effectively to slow or prevent further vision loss. Treatment plans vary depending on the type and severity of the condition, but here’s what you can expect:

• Prescription Eye Drops – The most common first-line treatment, eye drops help reduce intraocular pressure (IOP) by either decreasing fluid production or improving drainage.

• Laser Therapy (SLT or ALT) – Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) and Argon Laser Trabeculoplasty (ALT) are non-invasive procedures that enhance fluid drainage, reducing pressure in the eye.

• Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) – For patients needing more than eye drops, MIGS offers a less invasive surgical approach to improving fluid outflow.

• Traditional Glaucoma Surgery – In severe cases, procedures like trabeculectomy or drainage implants may be necessary to control eye pressure.

Protect Your Sight at Montrose Eye Care

Glaucoma is a serious but manageable condition—if caught early. This Save Your Vision Month, make your eye health a priority. A comprehensive glaucoma screening at Montrose Eye Care can help detect issues before they impact your vision.

Schedule your eye exam at Montrose Eye Care to take the first step in preventing vision loss from glaucoma. Visit our office in Houston, Texas, or call (713) 300-1477 to book an appointment today.