Glaucoma affects over 3 million Americans and is the second leading cause of blindness worldwide. Learn why early detection is critical and what treatment options are available.
Understanding Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, the bundle of nerve fibers that carries visual information from your eye to your brain. It's often associated with elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), though glaucoma can also occur with normal eye pressure.
Why It's Called the "Silent Thief"
Glaucoma earns its nickname because in most cases, there are no symptoms in the early stages. Vision loss begins with peripheral (side) vision and progresses so gradually that many people don't notice until significant damage has already occurred.
By the time vision loss is noticeable, up to 40% of nerve fibers may already be damaged — and that damage is irreversible.
Types of Glaucoma
Open-Angle Glaucoma (Most Common)
The drainage angle formed by the cornea and iris remains open, but the trabecular meshwork (the drainage system) is partially blocked. Pressure builds slowly over time.
Angle-Closure Glaucoma
The iris bulges forward to narrow or block the drainage angle. Can occur suddenly (acute) or gradually (chronic). Acute angle-closure is a medical emergency.
Normal-Tension Glaucoma
Optic nerve damage occurs despite normal eye pressure. Thought to be related to poor blood flow to the optic nerve.
Secondary Glaucoma
Caused by another condition such as eye injury, inflammation, or certain medications.
Who Is at Risk?
- •Age: Risk increases significantly after age 60
- •Family history: Having a first-degree relative with glaucoma increases risk 4-9x
- •Race: African Americans are 6-8x more likely to develop glaucoma; Hispanic/Latino populations also have elevated risk
- •High eye pressure: A major risk factor, though not all people with high pressure develop glaucoma
- •Thin corneas: Associated with higher risk
- •Medical conditions: Diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and hypothyroidism
- •Severe nearsightedness: High myopia increases risk
Detection at ProVision
Our comprehensive glaucoma evaluation includes:
- •Tonometry: Measures intraocular pressure
- •Ophthalmoscopy: Examines the optic nerve for signs of damage
- •Perimetry (Visual Field Test): Maps your complete field of vision to detect blind spots
- •Gonioscopy: Examines the drainage angle
- •Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): Provides detailed imaging of the optic nerve and retinal nerve fiber layer — can detect changes before vision loss occurs
- •Pachymetry: Measures corneal thickness
Treatment Options
While glaucoma damage cannot be reversed, treatment can halt or slow progression:
Eye Drops
The most common first-line treatment. Various classes of drops reduce eye pressure by either decreasing fluid production or improving drainage.
Laser Treatment
- •Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT): Improves drainage through the trabecular meshwork
- •Laser Peripheral Iridotomy: Creates a small hole in the iris to improve drainage in angle-closure glaucoma
Surgery
When drops and laser aren't sufficient, surgical options include trabeculectomy, tube shunt surgery, and minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS).
The Importance of Regular Monitoring
Glaucoma requires lifelong management. Regular follow-up appointments allow us to monitor your condition and adjust treatment as needed.
Don't wait for symptoms. Schedule your comprehensive eye exam at ProVision Eye Associates — early detection saves sight.
