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At our practice, we understand that glaucoma can be a complex condition that requires

specialized care. That's why we have invested in state-of-the-art technology and

techniques to ensure that our patients receive personalized treatment plans tailored to

their individual needs. From routine check-ups to advanced surgical procedures, our

team is here to provide compassionate and comprehensive care every step of the way.

Trust us to be your partner in preserving your vision and improving your overall eye health.

WHAT IS GLAUCOMA?

Glaucoma is an eye disease where the optic nerve is damaged as a result of pressure building up in the eye over a period of time. Often called the “sneak thief of sight,” this eye condition has no early signs or symptoms until damage has already occurred.

This makes it vital to having a regular comprehensive eye exam so your local eye doctor can test the pressure of the eye to make sure there are no issues. This is especially true if you have a family history of this eye condition as glaucoma is typically an inherited eye disease.

The optic nerve is responsible for transmitting what your eyes see and other information to your brain. Thus, when there is damage to the optic nerve via glaucoma, there is a loss of peripheral vision, also known as tunnel vision. Untreated, glaucoma can lead to total blindness.

 

HOW DOES GLAUCOMA TESTING WORK?

A glaucoma test is usually part of a routine eye exam. Both types of glaucoma tests measure the internal pressure of the eye.

One glaucoma test involves measuring what happens when a puff of air is blown across the surface of the eye. (A puff test) Another test uses a special device (in conjunction with eye-numbing drops) to “touch” the surface of the eye to measure eye pressure.

While increased eye pressure is a key indicator of the disease, it does not necessarily mean you have a glaucoma diagnosis. In fact, the only way to detect glaucoma is to have a detailed, comprehensive eye exam that often includes dilation of the pupils.

So “true” glaucoma testing actually involves examining the retina and optic nerve at the back of the eye for signs of the disease.

 

GLAUCOMA TREATMENT

Depending on the severity of the disease, treatment for glaucoma can involve the use of medications, conventional (bladed) surgery, laser surgery or a combination of these treatments. Medicated eye drops aimed at lowering IOP usually are tried first to control glaucoma.

Because glaucoma is often painless, people may become careless about the strict use of eye drops that can control eye pressure and help prevent permanent eye damage. In fact, non-compliance with a program of prescribed glaucoma medication is a major reason for blindness resulting from glaucoma.

If you find that the eye drops you are using for glaucoma are uncomfortable or inconvenient, never discontinue them without first consulting your eye doctor about a possible alternative therapy.

All glaucoma surgery procedures (whether laser or non-laser) are designed to accomplish one of two basic results: decrease the production of intraocular fluid or increase the outflow (drainage) of this same fluid.

Occasionally, a procedure will accomplish both. Currently, the goal of glaucoma surgery and other glaucoma therapy is to reduce or stabilize intraocular pressure (IOP). When this goal is accomplished, damage to ocular structures – especially the optic nerve – may be prevented.

 

ARE YOU AT HIGH RISK FOR GLAUCOMA?

  • If you are over the age of 40 and if you have a family history of glaucoma..

  • Talk to family members about glaucoma. If family members have glaucoma, then your glaucoma risk is increased.

  • If you have diabetes or high blood pressure..

  • Steroid Users – adults who require approximately 14 to 35 puffs of steroid inhaler to control asthma have an increased incidence of glaucoma.

  • Eye Injury – Injury to the eye may cause secondary open-angle glaucoma. This type of glaucoma can occur immediately after the injury or years later.

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