Glaucoma
Protect your vision from glaucoma
At Hollingshead Barrett, we have the expertise to effectively diagnose and treat glaucoma using the latest technology. Let our experienced and compassionate doctors help protect your vision through early detection and treatment. Start by taking our quick Vision Quiz to learn more about your next steps.
What is glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, usually due to a buildup of fluid that causes high pressure within the eye. More than three million Americans have glaucoma, but only half are aware of it. That’s because glaucoma develops gradually without warning signs or symptoms. If left untreated, it can cause irreversible vision loss or blindness.
The good news is that glaucoma is very treatable if detected early. That’s why scheduling routine eye exams is critical to preserving your vision.
Your eye is filled with fluid that is constantly being created and drained. When the eye’s natural drainage canals are blocked or no longer function efficiently, this fluid can build up causing high pressure within the eye and damaging the optic nerve.
Watch this brief video to learn more about glaucoma.
There are two main types of glaucoma: primary open-angle and angle-closure.
The most common form of glaucoma is the primary open-angle type. This is where the eye's drainage canals are open but have become less effective in draining fluid. In angle-closure glaucoma, the iris, or the colored part of the eye, blocks the entrance to the drainage canal, causing pressure within the eye to increase.
Although high pressure is the main cause, there are other forms of glaucoma that are the result of different issues. In some patients, the optic nerve is at risk of damage because it has become sensitive to normal eye pressure (normal tension glaucoma) or is being affected by another condition such as high blood pressure (secondary glaucoma).
A thorough eye exam by your doctor can detect which type of glaucoma you have.
How is glaucoma diagnosed?
Because early detection is so important to limiting vision loss associated with glaucoma, regular eye examinations are recommended. Elevated pressure within the eye and other indicators, such as optic nerve damage, can be detected only by a thorough examination and testing.
Hollingshead Barrett Eye Center employs advanced, state-of-the-art computerized evaluation techniques to detect early signs of optic nerve damage and peripheral vision loss associated with glaucoma.
How is glaucoma treated?
The goal of most glaucoma treatments is to lower pressure within the eye. The first option usually used are medicated eyedrops that open the eye’s natural drainage system to allow more fluid outflow. Or, in some cases, oral medication is given for this purpose.
When eyedrops alone are no longer effective in keeping pressure within the prescribed range, the next step is to examine the best surgical alternatives for your condition. There are several options your doctor may consider to reduce intraocular pressure and preserve your vision.
One surgical option that’s becoming increasingly popular is called Micro-Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS). This is a category of surgical procedures that use microscopic devices and tiny incisions to lower pressure inside the eye in order to prevent or minimize damage to the optic nerve. These outpatient procedures are quick, convenient, and virtually painless, allowing you to resume normal activity the same day or the day after your surgery.
While MIGS does not replace or eliminate traditional glaucoma surgery, it has greatly decreased the number of patients who require more invasive procedures to control their intraocular pressure.
For non-pressure related glaucoma, lifestyle changes, medication, and surgery may all be used to protect the optic nerve from damage.
Although there is no cure for glaucoma, it can be effectively controlled and managed with proper treatment. The type of care your doctor prescribes will depend on the condition of your eyes and your individual circumstances.
Who is at risk of developing glaucoma?
Glaucoma typically affects people over the age of 40, but it can occur at any age. However, some groups are at higher risk than others. People aged 65 or older, family members of those already diagnosed with glaucoma, African-Americans, Asian-Americans, diabetics, and those who are nearsighted or who have suffered severe injury to the eye are all at elevated risk. High blood pressure is another risk factor. If you fit into any of these categories, a thorough eye examination is recommended.
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