Secondary Glaucoma
Secondary Glaucoma
Advanced Diagnosis & Treatment in Austin, Kyle, Killeen & New Braunfels with Dr. Zarmeena Vendal, MD
Secondary Glaucoma is a form of glaucoma that develops as a complication of another medical condition, eye disease, injury, or medication. Unlike Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma or Angle-Closure Glaucoma, this type is not idiopathic (from unknown cause) and typically requires careful investigation of the underlying cause.
At Westlake Eye Specialists, we provide comprehensive care for all types of glaucoma, including the many forms of secondary glaucoma. Our fellowship-trained glaucoma expert, Dr. Zarmeena Vendal, MD, brings Harvard-level precision and compassionate care to patients across Austin, Kyle, Killeen, and New Braunfels, TX.
What Is Secondary Glaucoma?
Secondary glaucoma refers to any glaucoma that occurs due to a known cause. In these cases, pressure inside the eye becomes elevated (or optic nerve damage occurs) as a result of another condition or event.
Because secondary glaucoma arises from such diverse causes, it can present in many different ways—some acute and painful, others silent and progressive. Early detection and personalized treatment are essential to preserve vision.
Common Causes of Secondary Glaucoma
1.
Neovascular Glaucoma
Caused by the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the drainage angle, often due to diabetic retinopathy, retinal vein occlusion, or ocular ischemia.
2.
Uveitic Glaucoma
Results from chronic inflammation of the eye (uveitis), which can damage the drainage system or lead to steroid-induced IOP elevation.
3.
Steroid-Induced Glaucoma
Can result from long-term use of corticosteroids (eye drops, oral medications, or inhalers), which may reduce fluid outflow.
4.
Traumatic Glaucoma
Caused by eye injury (blunt trauma, surgical complications, or penetrating injuries) damaging the angle or internal structures.
5.
Pigmentary Glaucoma
Occurs when pigment granules from the iris clog the drainage system, more common in younger, nearsighted individuals.
6.
Pseudoexfoliative Glaucoma (PXG)
Caused by the buildup of flaky protein-like material on the lens and angle structures, impeding outflow.
7.
Lens-Induced Glaucoma
Symptoms of Secondary Glaucoma
Symptoms vary based on the type and cause, but common signs include:
- Eye pain or pressure
- Blurred vision
- Redness or inflammation
- Halos around lights
- Sudden vision loss (in acute cases)
- Gradual peripheral vision loss (in chronic forms)
Some types—such as uveitic or steroid-induced glaucoma—can develop without noticeable symptoms, highlighting the importance of routine eye care, especially if you’ve had recent eye surgery, trauma, or systemic disease.
Diagnosing Secondary Glaucoma
At Westlake Eye Specialists, our state-of-the-art diagnostic technology and meticulous evaluation process allow us to identify not just the presence of glaucoma, but the root cause.
Diagnostic tests may include:
- Tonometry – To assess intraocular pressure
- Gonioscopy – To evaluate the angle for blockages or abnormal vessels
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) – To scan the optic nerve
- Visual Field Testing – To detect vision loss
- Anterior Segment Imaging – Especially important for trauma or uveitic causes
- Fluorescein Angiography – For retinal vascular disease (neovascular cases)
By identifying the underlying cause of elevated IOP, we create a targeted treatment plan that controls glaucoma while addressing the systemic or ocular condition contributing to it.
Secondary Glaucoma Treatment Options
Treatment depends heavily on the specific type of secondary glaucoma, how advanced it is, and the patient’s overall health.
Medications
Pressure-lowering eye drops are often used as first-line therapy. Inflammatory cases may also require steroids and immune-modulating agents.
Laser Treatments
- SLT or DSLT can be effective in some secondary glaucomas
- Laser iridotomy may be necessary for angle-closure variants
- Cyclophotocoagulation (CPC) is used in cases with refractory IOP elevation
Surgery
When medications and laser therapy are insufficient, surgical options may include:
- Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS):
o iStent Inject®, Hydrus®, or OMNI® System during cataract surgery - Tube Shunt Implants:
o Often used in neovascular or post-traumatic glaucoma - Trabeculectomy or Cyclodestructive Procedures:
o Reserved for more severe or unresponsive cases
All surgeries are performed with the goal of maximizing vision preservation while minimizing complications, under the care of Dr. Zarmeena Vendal.
Why Choose Westlake Eye Specialists?
- Led by Dr. Zarmeena Vendal, MD, Harvard-trained glaucoma specialist
- Deep expertise in complex secondary glaucomas
- On-site diagnostics, in-office laser treatments, and surgical capabilities
- Convenient access across Austin, Kyle, Killeen, and New Braunfels
- Compassionate, clear communication at every step of your care
- Multidisciplinary coordination with your referring doctors or specialists
Schedule Your Glaucoma Evaluation Today
If you’ve been diagnosed with a systemic or eye condition that puts you at risk for glaucoma—or are noticing changes in your vision—schedule a consultation today with the team that’s trusted across Central Texas.
Call now or book online to meet with Dr. Zarmeena Vendal, the region’s trusted glaucoma specialist serving Austin, Kyle, Killeen, and New Braunfels.
