Find Us at Southlake
Glaucoma Screenings & Management
Glaucoma is a common eye disease affecting millions, often without warning signs. At North Texas Eye Care, Dr. Gregory Kloesel takes a proactive approach to glaucoma care, helping you stay ahead of the disease to protect your long-term vision.
What Is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, the part of your eye that sends visual information to your brain. It’s often linked to high pressure inside the eye (called intraocular pressure), but it can occur even when eye pressure is normal.
What makes glaucoma especially tricky is that it usually causes no pain or symptoms in the early stages. Many people don’t realize they have it until permanent vision loss has already started.
According to the CDC, more than 3 million Americans have glaucoma, but only half know it. It’s also the second leading cause of blindness worldwide.
The good news? When caught early, glaucoma can be managed. That’s why regular eye exams are so important.
Am I at Risk for Glaucoma?
While anyone can develop glaucoma, certain factors increase your risk, especially as you age. You may benefit from more frequent screening if you:
- Are over 40
- Have a family history of glaucoma
- Have diabetes, high blood pressure, or poor circulation
- Identify as African American, Hispanic, or Asian
- Have you had an eye injury or surgery
- Have high intraocular pressure
- Are very nearsighted or farsighted
We’ll discuss your risk factors during your visit and help create a plan for ongoing care.
How We Screen for Glaucoma
Dr. Kloesel screens for glaucoma during your comprehensive eye exam. This may include:
- Eye pressure testing
- Visual field testing to check your peripheral (side) vision
- Optic nerve imaging to spot changes
- Gonioscopy or corneal thickness measurements, if needed
These tests are quick, painless, and incredibly valuable. Even if your vision feels fine, they help catch early signs of glaucoma before it affects your sight.
Living with Glaucoma: What It Looks Like
If you’re diagnosed with glaucoma, we’ll help you understand exactly what that means and how we’ll manage it. There’s no cure, but treatment can be very effective in slowing its progress. Your care plan may include:
- Prescription eye drops to lower eye pressure
- In-office monitoring of pressure and optic nerve health
- Imaging at regular intervals to track subtle changes
- Referrals and co-management with trusted local specialists if needed
Dr. Kloesel is a therapeutic optometrist and certified glaucoma specialist, which means your care is in experienced hands.
Let’s Keep Your Vision Clear
Whether you’re living with glaucoma, are newly diagnosed, or simply want to check your risk, we’re here to help. Request an appointment at our Southlake practice, and we’ll take it from there.