Glaucoma Treatment

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 but continues to be a very misunderstood disease. Many people don't realize the severity of the condition or who can be affected by it.

Glaucoma can cause blindness if it is left untreated, and unfortunately, approximately 10% of people with glaucoma who receive proper treatment still experience some loss of vision. There is no cure (yet) for glaucoma, and lost vision cannot be regained. However, with medication and/or surgery, it is possible to halt further loss of vision caused by the condition. Early diagnosis is the first step to preserving your vision.

People of all ages can develop glaucoma, from children to senior citizens. Older people are at a higher risk of developing it. Approximately 1 out of every 10,000 babies are born with glaucoma in the United States. African Americans in particular are susceptible at a younger age. There may be no symptoms in the beginning.

With open-angle glaucoma (the most common form), there are virtually no symptoms observed in the beginning,  because vision loss typically begins with a peripheral or side vision, which is less noticeable. You may not notice anything is wrong until you have significant vision loss. The best way to protect your sight from glaucoma is to get tested. If you have glaucoma, treatment can begin immediately.

Glaucoma Surgery

If medications is not effective in controlling eye pressure, or if medication creates intolerable side effects, surgery may be necessary. The standard procedures are filtration surgery (trabeculectomy) and laser trabeculoplasty.

Glaucoma Tests in East Orange, NJ

If you’d like to learn more about glaucoma treatment or to set up an appointment to meet with one of our doctors to discuss your symptoms, call our office at (973) 673-4620. You can also request an appointment by completing our convenient online form.