Glaucoma

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of irreversible vision loss worldwide - but it often develops so gradually that many people don’t realize they have it until significant damage has occurred. At Eye To Eye Optometry, we’re committed to helping our patients in Antioch protect their vision through early detection, careful monitoring, and expert management of glaucoma.
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What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, the part of the eye responsible for transmitting visual information to your brain. This damage is often linked to increased pressure inside the eye (intraocular pressure), though not all cases are pressure-related. Over time, the damage caused by glaucoma can lead to peripheral vision loss and, if untreated, total blindness.

There are several types of glaucoma, but the two most common are:

• Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma: The most common type, caused by poor drainage of the eye’s internal fluid. It develops slowly and painlessly.

• Angle-Closure Glaucoma: Occurs when the drainage angle between the iris and cornea becomes blocked, leading to a sudden rise in eye pressure. This form is a medical emergency.
  
  

Other less common forms include normal-tension glaucoma, congenital glaucoma, and secondary glaucoma (caused by injury, inflammation, or medication).

Why Glaucoma Often Goes Unnoticed

Glaucoma is sometimes called the “silent thief of sight” because it typically causes no pain and no noticeable changes in vision early on. Vision loss begins in the peripheral field, which the brain can compensate for until the condition becomes advanced.

The Importance of Routine Eye Exams

At Eye To Eye Optometry, we use advanced technology to detect early signs of glaucoma long before symptoms appear. During your glaucoma exam, our doctors evaluate:

• Intraocular pressure (IOP)

• Optic nerve health using digital imaging

• Corneal thickness (which can affect pressure readings)

• Visual field tests to identify areas of vision loss
  
  

Regular exams allow us to establish a baseline for your eye health, monitor for subtle changes, and begin treatment early - before permanent damage occurs.

Early Signs to Watch For

While early glaucoma often has no symptoms, the following may signal an issue:

• Gradual loss of peripheral vision

• Halos around lights

• Eye pain or redness

• Headaches or blurred vision

• Sudden vision loss

If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule an eye exam right away.

Glaucoma Management and Treatment Options

Although glaucoma cannot be cured, early detection and proper management can slow or prevent further vision loss. Treatment options may include:

• Prescription eye drops to reduce intraocular pressure

• Oral medications to decrease fluid production

• Laser therapy to improve drainage

• Surgery in more advanced cases
  
  

If we determine that laser therapy or surgical intervention is the best course of action, our optometrists will refer you to a trusted specialist for advanced care while continuing to monitor your vision and overall eye health.

Expert Glaucoma Care in Antioch, CA

With consistent eye exams, early diagnosis, and personalized treatment, you can protect your sight and preserve your quality of life. We’re here to help you stay one step ahead of vision loss with compassionate care and advanced diagnostic technology.

Stay ahead of glaucoma by scheduling your eye exam at Eye To Eye Optometry today

Eye-to-Eye Optometry has been caring for the eyes of people in East County for over 20 years. Here at the optometry offices of Eye to Eye Optometry Group, we strive to present you with all the benefits of the most prestigious optometry centers in a local facility with a relaxed, friendly atmosphere and experienced, knowledgeable, and caring optometrists. Whether you’re looking for an optometrist in Antioch CA, new prescription glasses, or need specialized care for a medical condition affecting your vision, our optometrists can give you proper advice and recommendations based on your circumstances.

At Eye, to Eye Optometry, we take great pride in assisting you and your family in receiving the utmost experience in eye care. As optometrists, We take your vision and optometry seriously. That is why you will find that the optometrists at Eye to Eye Optometry provide a wide range of primary vision care including sight testing, correction, diagnosis, treatment, and management of vision changes.
 

Our Optometrist

Dr. Linder holds a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from the University of California, Davis, and has achieved a Doctor of Optometry from the University of California, Berkeley. She has successfully practiced optometry for over 20 years in Antioch, California. As an optometrist, she is dedicated to her craft and continues to keep up with current technology therapies and licenses by attending more than 25 hours of continuing education annually. She is married to her husband Shawn and together they have 4 children Andrew, Aubrey, Amanda, and Adrian.

Her special professional interests include Contact Lenses and Surgical Options to enhance her lifestyle. Dr. Linder is passionate about optometry and considers her patients a part of her family.