Glaucoma is often referred to as the "silent thief of sight" because it typically develops without noticeable symptoms until significant vision loss has occurred. Early detection and proper management are critical to protecting your vision. At Optometry Medical Group, we’re committed to helping you understand the types of glaucoma, the testing process, and available treatment options.

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, which is crucial for transmitting visual information to the brain. This damage is often caused by increased intraocular pressure (IOP), although some cases can occur even with normal eye pressure. If untreated, glaucoma can lead to irreversible vision loss.
 

Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG)

Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma is the most common form of glaucoma and often progresses slowly over time. It occurs when the eye’s drainage system becomes less efficient, causing fluid to build up and increasing pressure within the eye.
 

Symptoms:

• POAG usually has no early symptoms

• Vision loss starts with peripheral vision and progresses to central vision over time
   

Risk Factors:

• Family history of glaucoma

• Age (over 60)

• High intraocular pressure

• Conditions like diabetes or hypertension
   

Angle-Closure Glaucoma (ACG)

Angle-Closure Glaucoma occurs when the iris blocks the eye’s drainage angle, leading to a rapid rise in eye pressure. This type of glaucoma can develop suddenly (acute) or gradually (chronic).
 

Symptoms of Acute ACG:

• Severe eye pain

• Blurred vision or seeing halos around lights

• Redness in the eye

• Nausea or vomiting
   

Chronic ACG progresses more slowly and may not present symptoms initially, making regular eye exams essential.
 

Risk Factors:

• A smaller or narrow drainage angle (more common in certain ethnicities, such as Asian populations)

• Hyperopia (farsightedness)

• Family history
   

Glaucoma Testing at Optometry Medical Group

Regular eye exams are crucial for detecting glaucoma early, even before symptoms arise. During your comprehensive exam, we may use the following diagnostic tools:

• Tonometry: Measures intraocular pressure (IOP).

• Visual Field Test: Detects any peripheral vision loss.

• Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): Provides detailed images of the optic nerve and retina to assess for damage.

• Gonioscopy: Examines the drainage angle of your eye.

• Pachymetry: Measures corneal thickness, which can affect IOP readings.
   

Our advanced technology allows us to diagnose glaucoma accurately and create a personalized treatment plan.
 

Treatment Options for Glaucoma

While glaucoma cannot be cured, its progression can be managed effectively with early detection and treatment. We offer a variety of treatment options tailored to meet individual needs. Prescription eye drops are often the first line of defense against glaucoma. These drops work by either improving fluid drainage or reducing fluid production, helping to lower intraocular pressure (IOP). When eye drops are not sufficient, oral medications may be prescribed to further reduce IOP and provide additional relief.
 

For more advanced cases, laser therapy offers effective treatment options. Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) is commonly used for Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG) to enhance fluid drainage, while Laser Peripheral Iridotomy is typically performed for Angle-Closure Glaucoma (ACG) to create a small hole in the iris, allowing fluid to flow more freely.

If these methods are not enough, surgical options may be considered. A trabeculectomy creates a new drainage pathway to alleviate pressure, and glaucoma drainage devices involve tiny implants that facilitate fluid drainage from the eye. 
 

Additionally, Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) provides a less invasive alternative to traditional surgery. These procedures, often performed alongside cataract surgery, improve eye pressure control while reducing the risks associated with more extensive surgical interventions.
 

Protect Your Vision at Optometry Medical Group Today

At Optometry Medical Group, we are dedicated to protecting your vision through comprehensive testing and personalized treatment plans. Whether you are at risk for glaucoma or simply due for your annual eye exam, proactive care is the key to maintaining healthy eyesight.
 

If you’re at risk for glaucoma, schedule your eye exam with Optometry Medical Group for expert care. Contact our offices in Seattle, Washington, by calling (206) 322-6915 for our Rainier office or (206) 395-2285 for our Madison office.