Glaucoma Testing

In Beaumont, where busy lifestyles and the bright Texas sun are part of everyday life, it is easy to overlook the importance of routine eye exams. But when it comes to glaucoma, regular testing is crucial. At Texas State Optical, we are committed to helping our community protect their vision with comprehensive glaucoma testing that can detect problems early and preserve your eye health for the future.
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What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is an eye disease that damages the optic nerve, which is essential for clear vision. This damage is often linked to increased pressure inside the eye, although it can occur even with normal eye pressure. Over time, glaucoma can lead to gradual vision loss, starting with peripheral vision and potentially resulting in blindness if left untreated.

Who Is at Risk for Glaucoma?

While glaucoma can affect anyone, certain factors significantly increase your risk:

• Adults over the age of 60

• African Americans, Hispanic and Asian populations

• Individuals with a family history of glaucoma

• People with elevated intraocular pressure

• Those with diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure

• Individuals with extreme nearsightedness

• Patients who have experienced eye injuries or undergone certain types of eye surgery

• Long-term users of corticosteroid medications, especially eye drops
  
  

If you fall into one or more of these categories, it is especially important to stay proactive about your eye health.

Why Glaucoma Testing Is Essential

Glaucoma often progresses with no early symptoms. By the time noticeable vision loss occurs, the damage is usually permanent. Regular glaucoma testing allows our optometrists to detect changes in your eye health early, even before you notice any vision issues.

Testing also helps us monitor any progression of the disease and adjust treatment plans as needed. Whether you are at risk or have already been diagnosed, consistent testing helps protect your vision.

What Does Glaucoma Testing Involve?

At Texas State Optical, glaucoma testing is part of a comprehensive eye exam and may include several advanced diagnostic tools and procedures:

• Tonometry: Measures the pressure inside your eye (intraocular pressure)

• Ophthalmoscopy: Examines the optic nerve for signs of damage

• Perimetry: A visual field test to check for areas of vision loss

• Pachymetry: Measures the thickness of your cornea, which can influence eye pressure readings

• Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): A high-resolution scan that detects early signs of damage to the nerve fibers

• Optos Retinal Imaging: A wide-field image of the retina that helps detect abnormalities and monitor changes over time

• Digital Retinal Imaging: Captures detailed images of the back of the eye, including the retina and optic nerve, for thorough documentation and ongoing comparison
  
  

These tests provide a detailed picture of your eye health and help our doctors determine whether glaucoma is present, how advanced it may be, and what treatment or monitoring is needed.

How Often Should You Be Tested?

For most adults, we recommend annual comprehensive eye exams that include glaucoma screening. However, those at higher risk may need more frequent testing, sometimes every 6 months, depending on the severity of their risk factors or existing condition. Our optometrists will guide you on the best testing schedule based on your personal eye health needs.

Protect Your Sight at Texas State Optical

With early detection and proper monitoring, vision loss from glaucoma can often be prevented. At Texas State Optical, we’re committed to helping you stay ahead of this serious condition with advanced testing and personalized care.

Schedule your glaucoma test today and take the first step in protecting your vision for the future