Professional Eye Care for Complex Glaucoma Cases
Glaucoma

GLAUCOMA
Glaucoma is a complicated disease in which damage to the optic nerve leads to progressive, irreversible vision loss. It is the second leading cause of blindness.

The most common form of the disease occurs when the ocular drainage canals become clogged over time. The inner eye pressure (also called intraocular pressure, or IOP) rises when the correct amount of fluid can’t drain out of the eye.

With the most common form of glaucoma, the entrances to the drainage canals are clear and should be working correctly. However, the clogging problem occurs farther inside the drainage canals. This is like a clogged pipe below the drain of a sink. Our clinic offers expert glaucoma services in Elmhurst, New York, to help manage this complex condition effectively.

Treatment Options That Can Help Preserve Vision

Most people will not experience symptoms, nor will they have any early warning signs. Open-angle glaucoma can cause a gradual loss of vision if it is not diagnosed and treated. The disease develops slowly and sometimes without visible vision loss for many years. It usually responds well to medication, especially if caught early and treated.

While anyone at any age can develop glaucoma, these conditions pose a higher risk:

  • A family history of glaucoma
  • Individuals over 40 years of age
  • Diabetics
  • Individuals of African descent
  • People who’ve experienced an eye injury or trauma

People of all ages are at risk for developing glaucoma, and only your eye care provider can make a diagnosis. Routine eye examinations are important to detect and identify glaucoma.

How Glaucoma Is Diagnosed and Monitored
Early diagnosis plays a major role in slowing glaucoma progression. Eye care professionals conduct comprehensive eye exams, including visual field tests, tonometry to check intraocular pressure, and optic nerve imaging. These tests help determine the severity and type of glaucoma. Once diagnosed, ongoing monitoring is crucial to assess how well the eye is responding to treatment. Timely adjustments to care plans ensure better outcomes and preserve vision.

Glaucoma Treatment Options That Help Preserve Sight
Treatment for glaucoma focuses on lowering intraocular pressure to prevent further optic nerve damage. This may include prescription eye drops, oral medications, laser therapy, or surgery. The choice of treatment depends on the type of glaucoma and how far it has progressed. Some patients benefit from a combination of methods for optimal control. Regular follow-ups are essential to evaluate treatment effectiveness and adjust the approach as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions
This section answers common questions to help clarify important facts about glaucoma and its treatment.

What causes intraocular pressure to increase?
Increased intraocular pressure typically results from improper drainage of fluid within the eye, leading to buildup and pressure on the optic nerve.
Are there symptoms in the early stages of glaucoma?
Most people with early-stage glaucoma do not experience noticeable symptoms, making regular eye exams essential for detection.
Can glaucoma be reversed once diagnosed?
Vision loss from glaucoma cannot be reversed, but timely treatment can stop or slow further damage.
Is laser treatment effective for glaucoma?
Laser therapy is often effective in improving fluid drainage and lowering eye pressure, especially for certain types of glaucoma.
How often should someone at risk get tested for glaucoma?
People at higher risk should have a comprehensive eye exam every one to two years, or as recommended by an eye care professional.
Can glaucoma occur without high eye pressure?
Yes, normal-tension glaucoma can occur even when intraocular pressure remains within the normal range.
What are the risks of delaying glaucoma treatment?
Delaying treatment increases the likelihood of optic nerve damage and permanent vision loss.

Your Eyes Deserve Dedicated Attention
Please contact us to schedule your eye appointment for GLAUCOMA EVALUATION.