Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a type of optic nerve damage that typically presents without noticeable symptoms until the later stages of the disease. Common risk factors for glaucoma include a family history of the condition, previous eye injuries, being over the age of 60, prolonged use of steroids in any form (such as eye drops, creams, or pills), and having African or Hispanic ancestry. The primary treatment for glaucoma is to reduce intraocular pressure to a level where additional harm to the optic nerve is prevented. This "target" pressure may differ for each individual based on their unique condition and the current state of their optic nerve.

In the treatment of open-angle glaucoma, options include trabeculoplasty (also known as ALT or SLT), topical or oral medications such as timolol, brimonidine, dorzolamide, latanoprost, and acetazolamide, or surgical procedures performed on an outpatient basis. These procedures may include Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS), trabeculectomy with or without mitomycin C, glaucoma shunt surgery, or cyclophotocoagulation.

In narrow-angle glaucoma, the iris is positioned too close to the drainage structures, which obstructs the outflow of aqueous fluid from the eye, leading to increased intraocular pressure. Typically, a laser peripheral iridotomy performed in the office is recommended to address this issue. However, it is important to understand that even after the iridotomy and improving the angle, there is a possibility that the angle may narrow again in the future. In such cases, cataract surgery or iridoplasty may be considered as additional treatment options.

Understanding and Managing Glaucoma

Regular eye exams are crucial for assessing the health of your eyes, particularly for the diagnosis and management of glaucoma.

Glaucoma is a type of optic neuropathy, often developing without noticeable symptoms until later stages. Risk factors for glaucoma include a family history of the condition, previous eye injuries, being over 60 years old, long-term steroid use (including eye drops, creams, and oral medication), and African or Hispanic descent.

The primary goal in glaucoma treatment is to reduce intraocular pressure to a level that prevents further damage to the optic nerve. The "target" pressure varies depending on the individual and the condition of their optic nerve.

Glaucoma is categorized into two main types: open-angle glaucoma and narrow-angle glaucoma. The term "angle" refers to the space between the cornea and the iris, where the eye's fluid (aqueous humor) drains.

For open-angle glaucoma, treatment options include trabeculoplasty (ALT, SLT), oral or topical medications (such as timolol, brimonidine, dorzolamide, latanoprost, and acetazolamide), or surgical procedures like Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS), trabeculectomy (with or without mitomycin C), glaucoma shunt surgery, or cyclophotocoagulation.

In narrow-angle glaucoma the iris is positioned too close to the drainage structures, obstructing fluid drainage and causing increased intraocular pressure. Laser peripheral iridotomy is typically recommended to address this issue. However, even after the procedure, the angle may narrow again over time. In such cases, cataract surgery or iridoplasty may be needed.