Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma
Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG)
Trusted Diagnosis & Treatment by Glaucoma Specialists in Austin, Kyle, Killeen & New Braunfels, TX
Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG) is the most common form of glaucoma and one of the leading causes of permanent vision loss in adults over 60. At Westlake Eye Specialists, we are proud to offer advanced, individualized care for POAG at all four of our Central Texas locations: Austin, Kyle, Killeen, and New Braunfels.
Led by Dr. Zarmeena Vendal, MD, a Harvard-trained glaucoma specialist, our practice is known for early diagnosis, minimally invasive treatments, and personalized patient education—helping you preserve your vision for life.
What Is Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma?
Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma is a chronic, progressive eye disease caused by increased pressure inside the eye (intraocular pressure or IOP), which gradually damages the optic nerve.
Despite having an open drainage angle—hence the name—the eye’s fluid doesn’t drain efficiently, leading to increased pressure and nerve fiber loss.
POAG is especially dangerous because it often develops without any noticeable symptoms, and many patients are unaware they have it until permanent peripheral vision loss has already occurred.
If you live in Austin, Kyle, Killeen, or New Braunfels, regular glaucoma screenings at Westlake Eye Specialists are your best defense against silent vision loss.
Risk Factors for POAG
While anyone can develop glaucoma, the following risk factors may increase your chances:
- Age 60 or older
- African, Hispanic, or Asian heritage
- Family history of glaucoma
- Diabetes, high blood pressure, or cardiovascular disease
- High intraocular pressure (IOP)
- Thin corneas
- Prolonged corticosteroid use
- Previous eye injury or surgery
We recommend patients over 40 with any of these risk factors undergo regular glaucoma screenings, especially in high-risk areas like Central Texas where environmental and genetic factors may play a role.
Common Symptoms of POAG
Most patients do not notice symptoms until the disease has progressed significantly. When signs do occur, they often include:
- Gradual loss of peripheral (side) vision
- Difficulty adjusting to dark environments
- Mild headaches or eye strain
- “Tunnel vision” in advanced stages
Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Residents of Austin, Kyle, Killeen, and New Braunfels should schedule annual eye exams to catch glaucoma early.
How We Diagnose POAG at Westlake Eye Specialists
We use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools at all our locations to detect glaucoma at its earliest stages. Our exams include:
- Tonometry – Measures intraocular pressure
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) – Analyzes optic nerve health
- Visual Field Testing – Detects blind spots in your peripheral vision
- Gonioscopy – Evaluates the eye’s drainage angle
- Pachymetry – Measures corneal thickness
With this comprehensive testing, Dr. Zarmeena Vendal and our team can diagnose POAG early and begin proactive treatment to protect your sight.
Treatment Options for Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma
The primary goal of POAG treatment is to lower intraocular pressure (IOP) and prevent further damage to the optic nerve. Depending on the severity of your condition and your lifestyle needs, we offer a range of effective therapies:
Eye Drops
Prescription drops help decrease fluid production or increase drainage in the eye.
In-Office Laser Treatments
- Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) »
- Direct SLT (DSLT) »
These procedures are painless, take only minutes to perform, and are available at our Austin and Kyle offices.
Long-Term Medication Implants
- AbbVie Durysta® » – A slow-release medication pellet that helps maintain lower IOP for months with a single treatment.
Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS)
Available at our surgical suite and during cataract surgery, MIGS offers a fast recovery and strong results. Options include:
- iStent Inject® »
- iStent Infinite® »
- Hydrus® Microstent »
- Kahook Dual Blade (KDB) »
- Trabectome® »
- Sight Sciences OMNI® »
Every treatment plan is tailored to your personal needs, visual goals, and medical history.
Why Choose Westlake Eye Specialists?
- Zarmeena Vendal, MD – Harvard-trained and board-certified glaucoma specialist
- On-site diagnostics and surgery center
- Four convenient locations: Austin, Kyle, Killeen, New Braunfels
- Clear, thorough communication so you’re never left in the dark
- Same-week consultations available for new patients
We are committed to helping you navigate your glaucoma diagnosis with clarity and confidence, and to preserving your sight for years to come.
Book Your POAG Consultation Today
If you’ve been diagnosed with glaucoma—or are at increased risk due to family history or age—schedule a comprehensive evaluation at Westlake Eye Specialists.
Call us today or schedule online to meet with Dr. Zarmeena Vendal, your trusted Austin glaucoma specialist. We proudly serve the communities of Austin, Kyle, Killeen, and New Braunfels with excellence in glaucoma care.
