Improving Your Vision and Your Life

Glaucoma Austin

Not only are your eyes a fundamental means of expression, but they also provide you with the opportunity to observe your surroundings and make sense of the world. Glaucoma is an insidious disease, one that slowly but steadily robs people of their vision and, ultimately, of their personal perspective. Dr. Lester Kitchen uses state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and advanced therapies to treat patients suffering from glaucoma. Tech Ridge Vision, located in Austin, is dedicated to perfecting techniques for glaucoma diagnosis. As the second leading cause of blindness, this eye disease is best dealt with in its early stages. If you think you may have glaucoma, contact our practice today.

What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma can occur when too much fluid pressure builds up in your eye. This condition is often inherited and usually emerges later in life. The fluid in your eye naturally flows through a mesh-like channel, which can become blocked, causing fluid buildup. Less frequently, blunt trauma, chemical exposure, infection, blood vessel blockage, or an inflammatory condition can cause glaucoma.

• Open-angle glaucoma is the most common type of glaucoma, characterized by normal structural appearance but improper draining of fluid through the mesh-like drain.
• Angle-closure glaucoma is also called acute or chronic angle-closure glaucoma and is less common. This type of glaucoma can cause a sudden buildup of fluid because of a poor angle between the iris and cornea.

Diagnosis

It is important to make an appointment with us as soon as you think glaucoma may be present. If you experience any of the following, you may be at risk for glaucoma:

• Sudden eye pain
• Headache
• Blurred vision
• Appearance of halos around lights
• Redness in the eye
• Vision loss
• Hazy eyes
• Tunnel vision
• Nausea or vomiting

At Tech Ridge Vision, we believe that diagnosis is the most important step in treating glaucoma. Our Austin practice is equipped with the most advanced technology in the industry. Our sophisticated tools include the Zeiss Cirrus HD-OCT retinal scanner that provides wide-field, high-resolution scans of the optic nerve and the retina. This photographic tool helps us to make accurate diagnoses and develop proper management care plans. Because there is no way to permanently reverse the effects of glaucoma, our goal is to do everything we can to manage and preserve your vision and improve your quality of life.

Treatment Options

Glaucoma treatment involves a long-term management program and may include prescription medications such as eye drops, minor surgeries, and co-management with your physician. Dr. Kitchen trained with the top glaucoma specialist in Dallas and follows the advancements in glaucoma treatment very closely. We can assure you that Tech Ridge Vision can provide you with the safest, most advanced and effective treatment available.

Learn More about Glaucoma

Glaucoma can have a dramatically negative impact on your ocular health, quality of vision, and independence. Dr. Kitchen is committed to helping you preserve your eyesight. If you are interested in scheduling a consultation with our glaucoma specialist today, contact our Austin office today.