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Am I a Candidate for iStent?

After a glaucoma diagnosis, finding a suitable treatment is crucial for preserving visual acuity. Glaucoma causes pressure to rise in the eye, and when that occurs, damage to the optic nerve can harm a person’s ability to see, potentially leading to permanent vision loss. 

Fortunately, minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS), like iStent, has significant potential to assist glaucoma patients. However, the iStent isn’t the right choice for everyone. If you’re wondering whether you’re a candidate for iStent, here’s what you need to know. 

What Is iStent? 

iStent is an implantable medical device that reduces intraocular pressure (IOP) by improving fluid drainage in the eye. By decreasing fluid levels, IOP also declines. In turn, the chance of ongoing damage to the optic nerve is reduced, lessening a patient’s chances of more vision loss. 

The iStent procedure won’t reverse any permanent vision loss that has already occurred. However, it can preserve a patient’s remaining vision, which is why it’s an attractive option for patients struggling to manage their IOP using alternative means like eye drops. 

Best Candidates for iStent 

Generally, the iStent is a potential treatment option for specific glaucoma patients. It’s best suited to treat mild-to-moderate open-angle glaucoma in patients who aren’t securing the necessary IOP reduction through the use of glaucoma eye drops. It’s also a viable treatment for pigmentary or pseudo-exfoliative glaucoma. 

However, the iStent procedure is done in conjunction with cataract surgery. As a result, patients need a cataract diagnosis, and the condition needs to justify cataract surgery. 

While those are the primary ways to determine if a patient is a candidate for iStent, other factors can influence whether it’s a viable treatment for their glaucoma. As a result, meeting the criteria above doesn’t guarantee candidate suitability. 

How to Find Out If You’re a Candidate for iStent 

If you’ve been diagnosed with glaucoma and aren’t getting the desired results from eye drops or other treatment options, iStent could be a solid choice for reducing the odds of further damage to your vision. However, the only way to find out if you’re a suitable candidate for iStent is to consult with your eye care provider. 

When you meet with your eye care provider, they can evaluate a variety of factors to determine if iStent is a solid choice. Every patient is unique, so participating in a thorough exam is essential, as it allows your eye care provider to determine whether the iStent will provide the desired result with minimal risk. 

Additionally, your eye care provider can review essential information about the procedure that allows you to make an informed decision. They can outline the benefits and risks, aftercare requirements, and other vital details, making it easier for you to determine if iStent is the right treatment for you if you’re a good candidate. 

Glaucoma Treatment Options in Buffalo

If you have glaucoma and are interested in determining your eligibility for the iStent procedure, our team is here to help. Take the first step toward improved eye health by scheduling an appointment at your nearest ECVA clinic today. 

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Exploring Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS)

Glaucoma is a chronic and progressive eye condition that’s also the leading cause of blindness in the world. Damage occurs as intraocular pressure (IOP) builds, which harms the optic nerve, causing irreversible vision loss. Traditional glaucoma treatments usually involve topical medications or laser treatments, the latter of which are associated with challenges like complications, long recovery times, and significant follow-up requirements.  

Fortunately, newer procedures are proving effective at addressing IOP in glaucoma patients, and they can involve less risk when compared to some traditional alternatives. Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) is a cutting-edge approach that’s proving highly effective, and it’s potentially safer than some other forms of treatment. Here’s what you need to know about MIGS.  

What Is Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery?  

MIGS is a group of glaucoma surgeries that use minimally invasive approaches to reduce IOP. Typically, they involve a small incision and subsequent procedures to improve fluid drainage, leading to far less intraocular pressure.  

While MIGS can’t reverse any damage caused by glaucoma, the treatments can slow or prevent progression. The procedures typically decrease IOP substantially over periods of up to two years. Plus, they can reduce a patient’s need for glaucoma eye drops, making the condition easier to manage daily. 

Types of MIGS  

There are several MIGS procedures currently available. Here is a brief overview of them:  

  • Ab-Interno Canaloplasty (ABiC): A MIGS procedure that uses a microscopic incision and the insertion of a catheter into the drainage canal to inject a viscoelastic substance that breaks down blockages and adhesions to improve fluid drainage  
  • CyPASS: A MIGS procedure involving an implanted device that’s positioned in the suprachoroidal space to enhance fluid outflow  
  • Gonio-Assisted Transluminal Trabeculotomy: A MIGS procedure similar to ABiC that’s particularly well-suited to younger patients with juvenile glaucoma  
  • iStent: A MIGS procedure using a small implant that’s placed in the drainage angle to improve fluid outflow  
  • Trabectome: A MIGS procedure for treating open-angle glaucoma that involves a small incision and a specialized tissue debris-removal tool to address fluid drainage blockages.  

The Benefits of MIGS  

MIGS procedures offer patients an array of benefits. Generally, MIGS is far safer than traditional glaucoma surgery, using smaller incisions and coming with a reduced risk of complications. Each of the MIGS procedures also minimally alters normal anatomy and instead focuses on augmenting physiological systems to improve outflow.  

With a MIGS procedure, IOP is typically reduced significantly, though the exact amount can vary. In many cases, patients can reduce their use of eye drop medications after a MIGS procedure. Recovery is also far quicker when compared to many traditional surgical alternatives, resulting in less downtime for patients.  

Is MIGS Right for You?  

Generally, MIGS are potential treatments for patients with mild or moderate glaucoma who either aren’t getting positive results with topical medications or who don’t tolerate those treatments well. The use of the implants reduces the need for topical medications, making them a strong choice in situations where medications prove ineffective or lead to undesirable or hard-to-manage side effects.  

However, only an eye care provider can determine if you’re a good candidate for MIGS. Additionally, there are several MIGS procedures available, and some may better suit your situation than others.  

At ECVA, the safety and health of our patients’ eyes are our priority. If you’re considering MIGS as a treatment for glaucoma or simply haven’t visited your eye care provider in the past year, the ECVA team is here to help. Schedule an appointment at your closest ECVA clinic today.  

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What to Expect After Glaucoma Surgery in WNY

There’s a reason why we call glaucoma the ‘silent thief of sight,’; 10% of patients who receive treatment still experience vision loss. Each year, more than 120,000 Americans experience blindness from this disease.

Glaucoma causes an increase in intraocular pressure (IOP), which can damage the eye’s optic nerve over time. While glaucoma is typically managed through medication and lifestyle changes, there are instances when glaucoma surgery becomes necessary to halt its progressive damage. This article explores the treatments available and how glaucoma surgery in WNY can save your eyesight.

When is Glaucoma Surgery Necessary?

Progressive damage to the optic nerve is the primary concern in glaucoma management. In the early stages of the disease, doctors prescribe eye drops or oral medications to lower IOP and prevent further damage. These medications work by reducing the production of aqueous humor (the fluid inside the eye) or increasing its drainage. However, not all patients respond well to medications, and some may experience continued optic nerve deterioration despite consistent treatment.

When glaucoma’s progression cannot be adequately controlled with medication alone, surgical intervention becomes necessary. Doctor’s base this decision on a careful assessment of the patient’s optic nerve health, visual field tests, and the rate of disease progression. Surgery creates alternative pathways for drainage aqueous humor, thus reducing IOP and preventing further damage to the optic nerve.

Medication intolerance is another factor that can necessitate glaucoma surgery. Some individuals may be sensitive or allergic to the components of glaucoma medications, leading to unpleasant side effects or an inability to tolerate the prescribed eye drops. Common side effects of glaucoma medications include redness, burning, stinging, and changes in heart rate. These complications significantly impact the patient’s quality of life, so doctor’s may explore alternative treatment options like surgery.

Advanced glaucoma presents a critical scenario where surgery is often the only viable option. In advanced stages of the disease, optic nerve damage is extensive, and visual field loss is significant. Medications alone may no longer be sufficient to control IOP and prevent further vision deterioration. Surgical intervention is crucial in these cases to salvage the vision and halt further progression.

What are the Different Types of Glaucoma Surgery?

Glaucoma surgery offers a long-term solution for individuals who cannot tolerate or do not respond well to medications. Glaucoma surgery encompasses various techniques and procedures aimed at reducing intraocular pressure (IOP) and preserving the health of the optic nerve. The choice of surgery depends on the type and severity of glaucoma, the patient’s medical history, and other factors. Some of the different types of glaucoma surgery include:

  • Trabeculectomy is one of the most common and traditional surgical procedures for glaucoma. In this procedure, a small flap is created in the white part of the eye (sclera), allowing aqueous humor (the eye’s fluid) to drain out of the eye. A filter is formed under the conjunctiva (the clear covering over the sclera) to collect and regulate fluid drainage. Trabeculectomy is performed in open-angle glaucoma cases to help reduce intraocular pressure.
  • Tube shunt implantation involves inserting a small tube or shunt into the eye to create a drainage pathway for aqueous humor. The tube is typically placed in the front part of the eye (the anterior chamber) or the back part of the eye (the vitreous cavity), depending on the specific type of tube used. This surgical approach is often chosen when trabeculectomy is less likely to succeed or has failed in controlling intraocular pressure.
  • Goniotomy and trabeculotomy are minimally invasive procedures typically performed in infants and children with congenital glaucoma. Goniotomy involves using a specialized lens to access and open the eye’s drainage angle, allowing better fluid outflow. Trabeculotomy involves making tiny incisions in the trabecular meshwork (the eye’s drainage system) to enhance fluid drainage. These procedures treat congenital or pediatric glaucoma by improving the fluid drainage from the eye.
  • Laser surgeries are less invasive than traditional surgeries and can be performed in an outpatient setting. Laser surgery is often used as a primary treatment or adjunct to medication, especially in open-angle glaucoma. There are several types effective for glaucoma management:
    • Laser trabeculoplasty involves using a laser to treat the trabecular meshwork, enhancing fluid drainage.
    • Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) targets specific cells in the drainage system, reducing IOP.
    • Laser cyclophotocoagulation aims to decrease fluid production by treating the ciliary body.
  • Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) procedures are a group of less invasive techniques designed to lower IOP with fewer complications and a shorter recovery time to traditional surgeries. Some common MIGS procedures include iStent, Hydrus Microstent, and Xen Gel Stent. These devices are typically implanted during cataract surgery or as standalone procedures and are suitable for patients with mild to moderate glaucoma.
  • Cyclodestructive procedures involve destroying or reducing aqueous humor production by treating the ciliary body. These procedures are for advanced or refractory glaucoma cases. Options include cyclophotocoagulation using lasers or cryotherapy (freezing) to target the ciliary body.

The choice of glaucoma surgery depends on various factors, including the type and severity of glaucoma, the patient’s overall health, and the surgeon’s expertise. Individuals with glaucoma must consult with glaucoma specialists to determine the most appropriate surgical approach for their specific condition.

What to Expect Following Glaucoma Surgery in WNY

Like any major surgery, there will be a recovery period after your glaucoma procedure.

How Long Does It Take to Recover from Glaucoma Surgery

Glaucoma surgery reduces IOP and preserves the health of the optic nerve, especially when conservative treatments like medications have proven ineffective. The recovery period after glaucoma surgery varies depending on the specific procedure performed, the individual’s overall health, and the extent of the surgical intervention.

Immediate Post-Op Period

The immediate post-operative period spans the first few hours after glaucoma surgery. During this time, patients are typically monitored in a recovery area to ensure no immediate complications. You may experience some discomfort, redness, or blurred vision immediately after the surgery. Always have someone accompany you for transportation home as your vision may be impaired.

First Few Days After Surgery

In the first few days after glaucoma surgery, it is common to experience some discomfort, mild pain, and blurred vision. The eye may be sensitive to light, and you may notice some redness and swelling around the surgical site. The use of prescribed eye drops or ointments is essential during this period to prevent infection and promote healing. It’s crucial to follow the medication schedule as prescribed by your surgeon.

Your doctor will advise you to avoid activities that could increase intraocular pressure, such as heavy lifting, straining, or bending over. Additionally, driving may be restricted during this time due to vision impairment. Most patients are advised to take it easy and rest as much as possible during the first few days.

Week 1-2

During the first week or two after glaucoma surgery, the initial discomfort and redness typically subside. Your vision may start to improve, but it may take some time to stabilize fully. Many patients can gradually resume light activities, but should still avoid strenuous exercise and lifting heavy objects. Be sure to follow your surgeon’s recommendations regarding activity levels.

Attend follow-up appointments with your eye surgeon as scheduled during this period. These appointments are crucial for monitoring your progress and making any necessary adjustments to your medication regimen. Your surgeon will also assess the success of the surgery in reducing intraocular pressure.

Week 2-6

Between the second and sixth weeks after glaucoma surgery, your eye should continue to heal and stabilize. Vision improvement may be more noticeable during this time, although it can still vary from person to person. Many patients can gradually return to their regular daily activities, including work, with the approval of their surgeon.

The frequency of post-operative check-ups may decrease during this period, but it’s essential to continue using prescribed eye drops as directed. Your surgeon will monitor your IOP and evaluate the long-term effectiveness of the surgery.

Long-Term Recovery

Long-term recovery from glaucoma surgery extends beyond the initial weeks and can last several months. While you may experience significant improvement in vision and IOP control, it’s important to remember that glaucoma management is a long-term effort that requires ongoing steps. Regular follow-up appointments with your glaucoma specialists are essential to monitor the health of your eyes and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

Tips for Glaucoma Surgery Aftercare

No matter the type of glaucoma surgery, the most important advice is to follow your doctor’s orders diligently. For example:

  • Adhere to the prescribed medication schedule diligently, as eye drops or ointments are critical to preventing infection and promoting healing.
  • Take it easy during the early recovery period. Avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, and activities that could increase intraocular pressure.
  • Keep all scheduled follow-up appointments with your glaucoma specialists to monitor your progress and ensure the success of the surgery.
  • Wear the protective eyewear your surgeon recommends, especially during activities where there is an injury risk.
  • A healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, can contribute to your overall eye health and well-being.
  • Educate yourself about glaucoma and its management. Understanding your condition can help you make informed decisions about your care and improve glaucoma management for the long haul.

Consult the Experts at ECVA for Glaucoma Surgery in WNY

Glaucoma surgery in WNY starts with a visit to the experienced practitioners at Eye Care & Vision Associates (ECVA). We are glaucoma specialists with a track record of the most innovative procedures to manage your condition. Contact ECVA today for glaucoma management in Williamsville, Buffalo, Niagara Falls, and Orchard Park.

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What Are the First Signs of Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is an eye condition involving damage to the optic nerve, at times also including increased intraocular pressure. Over time, glaucoma typically leads to permanent vision loss as the optic nerve deteriorates. 

Anyone is technically at risk of developing glaucoma, so understanding what the first signs of the condition are critical. That allows you to take swift action if symptoms develop, making it easier to preserve your vision through proper treatment. 

The First Signs of Glaucoma 

There are a few early warning signs that glaucoma is developing. Some patients may only have a single symptom, while others may experience several. Regardless of the number of symptoms, it’s critical to understand that they’re potentially indicative of a serious condition. 

Here’s a look at some of the first signs of glaucoma. 

Blurry or Hazy Vision 

Intraocular pressure and optic nerve damage both impact visual acuity. As a result, one of the first signs may people with early-stage glaucoma notice is blurriness or hazy vision. In some cases, patients may also experience other visual distortions. Regardless of its nature, any vision changes are worrisome, as they’re often indicative of an eye condition. 

Eye Redness 

Increased pressure in the eye can lead to redness. Its severity can vary, as well as its persistence. However, eye redness without a clear cause is a potential sign of glaucoma. 

Halos Around Lights 

Halos around lights are potentially a symptom of several eye conditions, including glaucoma. In some cases, the halos experienced by those developing glaucoma are described as both colorful and bright. However, any halos that aren’t attributed to a known condition are potentially concerning. 

Eye Pain 

Glaucoma can cause eye pain, even in the early stages. Additionally, headaches can also occur in the eye area. Often, the pain is severe, often so much so that it differentiates itself from other types of headaches. 

Nausea or Vomiting 

Typically, nausea or vomiting alone aren’t symptoms of glaucoma. However, if they’re accompanied by vision changes and eye pain, they’re potentially symptoms of the condition. 

What to Do If You Have Signs of Glaucoma 

If you’re experiencing any of the early signs of glaucoma above, it’s best to schedule an appointment with your eye care provider right away. They can formally evaluate you for the condition, and if glaucoma is responsible for your symptoms, they’ll develop a plan to reduce damage and alleviate symptoms. 

Even if glaucoma isn’t responsible, some of the symptoms above are associated with other serious eye conditions. As a result, it’s always best to get evaluated right away if you’re experiencing vision changes, eye pain, unexplained redness, or halos, including if it is or isn’t associated with nausea or vomiting. 

At ECVA, the safety and health of our patients’ eyes are our priority. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms above that could indicate glaucoma or simply haven’t seen your eye care provider in the past year, the ECVA team is here to help. Schedule an appointment at your closest ECVA clinic today. 

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What Are the Early Signs of Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is an eye condition impacting the optic nerve. As intraocular pressure builds, damage to the optic nerve can occur, leading to permanent vision defects and loss, potentially leading to blindness.  

While glaucoma isn’t typically preventable, early detection is crucial if you want to avoid optic nerve damage and slow the progression of vision loss. By knowing the early signs of glaucoma, you can take action at a critical time, increasing your odds of maintaining as much of your vision as possible.  

Here’s what you need to know about the early signs of glaucoma, as well as when you should see an eye health provider.  

Early Signs of Glaucoma  

Generally, there are a few symptoms that can be early signs of glaucoma. One of the most common ones is the loss of peripheral – or side – vision. Over time, it can lead to a sort of tunnel vision, though the process is often slow and hard to identify right when it begins.  

Halos around light are another symptom of glaucoma. Sensitivity to light is similarly a classic sign. In both of these cases, the issues may be particularly apparent in specific situations, such as driving at night.  

Other forms of vision loss – including a sudden decline in acuity or the visual field – can indicate glaucoma, too. Eye redness and pain could be a symptom of acute glaucoma. Haziness of the cornea is a potential symptom, though it’s usually only present with childhood glaucoma.  

In some cases, unexplained nausea or vomiting may also be related to glaucoma, particularly the acute form. The same goes for headaches and blurry vision.  

When to See an Eye Health Provider  

Ultimately, it’s always wise to see an eye health provider whenever you notice any shifts in the visual field or acuity, as well as symptoms of physical changes in the eye. Glaucoma typically isn’t preventable. However, with proper management, vision loss can be minimized.  

Additionally, some of the early signs of glaucoma are also symptoms of other serious eye conditions. For example, redness and eye pain may indicate an infection and, depending on the type, permanent eye damage can occur with surprising speed. Halos may be a sign of glaucoma, cataracts, retinal detachment, and many other potentially serious conditions, all of which should be assessed quickly to determine if treatment is necessary.  

However, even if you don’t have any of the early signs of glaucoma or symptoms of an eye condition, it’s still wise to see your eye health provider regularly. For most adults, an annual appointment is enough to monitor for vision changes and signs of eye health issues, though some may require more frequent visits if certain risks factors are present or they have an eye condition that requires ongoing treatment and tracking.  

At ECVA, the safety and health of our patient’s eyes are our priority. If you have early signs of glaucoma or haven’t seen your eye care provider in the past year, the ECVA team is here to help. Schedule an appointment at your closest ECVA clinic today. 

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Glaucoma Treatment and Management

During January, we recognize Glaucoma Awareness month by taking a close look at the eye condition. While we addressed what the condition is in our Understanding Glaucoma article and outlined the various kinds in our piece about the Types of Glaucoma, we wanted to ensure that patients had more information.  

If you’re wondering what treatment and management options are available for glaucoma, here’s what you need to know.  

Glaucoma Treatment and Management  

Glaucoma has the ability to cause permanent vision loss, including blindness. Fortunately, several treatment options are available that can reduce fluid levels and the pressure created by the condition.  

Getting the right kind of treatment quickly prevents additional vision loss. The fluid and pressure reductions help preserve the optic nerve, making further damage less likely. As a result, your current visual capabilities may remain intact, or the rate of impairment might be significantly reduced, depending on the severity and nature of your condition.  

Usually, different management approaches work best in certain situations. Here is a look at standard glaucoma treatment options.  

Prescription Eye Drops  

Certain prescription eye drops can reduce the pressure in your eye by decreasing the amount of fluid present. Since vision loss relating to glaucoma is caused by rising fluid-related pressure, it’s a practical option for certain patients.  

One of the benefits of this glaucoma management strategy is that it’s non-invasive. However, you might need to use the eye drops every day for the rest of your life to ensure the fluid and pressure levels stay in the acceptable range.  

Laser Treatment  

If eye drops aren’t sufficient for addressing the pressure increases created by the condition, laser treatment is an option for glaucoma patients. It’s more invasive than drops but not as invasive as glaucoma surgery.   

The laser treatment allows fluid to drain from the eye more efficiently, reducing the pressure faster than can be achieved with eye drops. At times, laser treatment alone is enough for treating glaucoma for up to five years, though some patients may need to continue using eye drops during that period. The treatment may also be repeatable, giving you a way to extend the effectiveness of this management strategy, though that isn’t always the case.  

Surgery  

Another option for treatment is glaucoma surgery. This option is more invasive than the alternatives, but it also provides results more quickly, reducing eye pressure far faster than either of the options above.  

There are several techniques your eye care provider may consider if glaucoma surgery is deemed the best option. If you need this type of treatment, your eye doctor will discuss the reasoning behind the method they select, ensuring you’re fully aware of why they consider it the best choice.  

At ECVA, the safety and health of our patient’s eyes are our priority. If you have signs or symptoms of glaucoma, want to explore a different glaucoma treatment or management strategy, or simply haven’t seen your eye care provider in the past year, we are here to help. Schedule an appointment at your closest ECVA clinic today.  

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Early Glaucoma Detection

Glaucoma is a serious eye condition where fluid builds up in the eye, causing damage to the optic nerve. If not treated promptly, glaucoma can cause permanent vision loss, if not total blindness. That’s why early detection is crucial.  

By learning about the symptoms of glaucoma, you can take action quickly, reducing the odds of permanent vision loss. Here’s a look at common signs of glaucoma, as well as when to see your eye care provider.  

The Signs and Symptoms of Glaucoma  

Like many eye conditions, there are several symptoms that could indicate glaucoma. Here is an overview of the primary symptoms people experience.  

Halos  

Seeing halos around light sources could indicate glaucoma, as well as other eye conditions like cataracts. Additionally, they can be side effects from surgery, injury, or symptoms of several different eye diseases.  

With glaucoma, the halos occur due to fluid buildup in the eye. As the fluid increases, it distorts incoming light, creating the bright circles known as halos.  

Vision Loss  

Vision loss in one eye or the development of a blind spot in your visual field could be a symptom of glaucoma. Even if the vision changes are small, the situation is urgent. Glaucoma’s impact on the optic nerve is gradual. By getting it checked quickly, you reduce the odds of permanent or increasingly severe vision loss.  

Cloudiness  

A cloudy-looking eye is another symptom of glaucoma. Glaucoma is a condition characterized by fluid buildup in the eye. When fluid increases, the pressure in the eye rises. Once the pressure reaches a certain point, fluid can get pushed into the cornea, giving it a noticeably cloudy appearance.  

Light Sensitivity  

Since glaucoma can increase pressure in the eye, it can cause light sensitivity. As a result, sensitivity to light can be an early sign of glaucoma, potentially occurring before other vision changes or outward symptoms, like cloudiness.  

Eye Pain  

Sudden and severe eye pain is always worrisome. Not only can it be a symptom of acute glaucoma, but it may also be a sign of other eye conditions, many of which are serious.  

When You Should See Your Eye Care Provider  

Ideally, you should see your eye care provider annually as part of your standard healthcare routine. Often, your eye doctor can detect glaucoma during an exam far before outward symptoms develop, allowing them to intervene quickly and save your vision.  

However, if you experience any of the symptoms above or other kinds of vision changes or eye-related concerns, schedule an appointment with your eye care provider immediately. Vision changes, unexplained pain, and other symptoms can be indicative of numerous conditions, some of which are serious and require immediate care. By acting fast and scheduling an appointment, you’re doing your part to care for your eye health.  

At ECVA, the safety and health of our patient’s eyes are our priority. If you are experiencing symptoms of glaucoma or other eye-related concerns, we are here to help. Schedule an appointment at your closest ECVA clinic today.  

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What Are the Types of Glaucoma?

a close up of a female having her eyes examined

January is Glaucoma Awareness month, a time of year where we take a close look at the condition and focus on sharing information to help patients maintain their eye health. While we covered the basics in a recent article – Understanding Glaucoma – we wanted to seize this opportunity to take a deeper dive into the topic.  

Glaucoma is often thought of as a single eye condition. However, there is more than one type of glaucoma, each with its own unique characteristics.  

If you are diagnosed with glaucoma, it’s wise to explore more about your specific variant. That way, you won’t just know more about how the condition is impacting your eye health, but also how the treatment options and outcomes can differ.  

Here’s a look at each of the types of glaucoma, including their characteristics, treatment options, and more.  

Open-Angle Glaucoma  

Open-angle glaucoma is the most common form of the condition. With open-angle glaucoma, the angle between the cornea and the iris is wide and open, essentially the way it is meant to be. Issues arise when the drainage canals become blocked, preventing proper fluid flow and leading to fluid accumulation.  

As the fluid builds up, the pressure increases. That pressure ultimately causes damage to the optic nerve, disrupting vision signals between the eye and the brain.  

Many people with open-angle glaucoma are initially unaware they have the condition. The fluid buildup usually happens slowly over time and doesn’t typically result in physical discomfort. Typically, people with open-angle glaucoma only become aware once they begin experiencing vision loss unless it is caught earlier during a standard eye exam.  

Open-angle glaucoma can lead to significant vision loss, up to blindness. With proper treatment, damage can be mitigated or slowed, potentially preserving your vision. However, there is no cure for any form of glaucoma, including open-angle.  

Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma  

Angle-closure glaucoma is also the result of fluid buildup. However, fluid flow is disrupted due to the narrowing of the entrance points of the drainage canals. At times, those openings are simply too small to allow for proper fluid flow. However, they can also be shut entirely, either by design or due to clogging.  

With angle-closure glaucoma, symptoms typically appear quickly. Along with vision loss, eye pain, headaches, and nausea commonly occur. There may also be eye redness as well as a halo effect around lights.   

Angle-closure glaucoma causes vision loss and may lead to blindness. It is also considered a medical emergency. As with open-angle glaucoma, there isn’t a cure. Though, with quick treatment, it’s possible to reduce the harmful effects of the condition.  

Normal-Tension Glaucoma  

With normal-tension glaucoma, pressure isn’t the issue, though optic nerve damage still occurs, resulting in vision changes or loss. In some cases, trauma may be to blame. In others, it could be heightened optic nerve sensitivity, blood flow issues, or circulation impairments.  

Normal-tension glaucoma, like the other versions, also can’t be cured. However, it can be managed, especially if caught early.  

At ECVA, our staff works tirelessly to care for the eye health of our patients. If you haven’t had your eyes checked recently or are experiencing symptoms of glaucoma, schedule an appointment at your closest ECVA clinic today.  

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Understanding Glaucoma

Glaucoma is an eye condition that can rob a person of their sight. It is the second-leading cause of blindness in the world, and about 3 million Americans suffer from it.  

While African Americans are most at risk of developing glaucoma, with about six percent having it by age 69, anyone could have it. The occurrence rate increases dramatically with age, ultimately impacting every demographic.  

If you would like to learn more about glaucoma, here’s what you need to know.  

What Is Glaucoma?  

There are several kinds of glaucoma. The most common version is open-angle glaucoma, where fluid doesn’t pass properly through various portions of the eye. This leads to a pressure increase, which, over time, damages the optic nerve.  

With open-angle glaucoma, the process can be slow, but there are no early warning signs. About 50 percent of those with the condition don’t realize they have it until they begin to lose their vision. However, it is possible to catch it early with regular screenings and proper eye care.  

With closed-angle glaucoma, the situation develops more quickly. The iris shifts, blocking the drain angle and leading to rapid fluid buildup. Vision gets blurry suddenly, and severe eye pain, headaches, nausea, and vomiting can all occur. Additionally, halos or rainbow-colored rings may be visible around light sources.  

Closed-angle glaucoma requires immediate treatment. Otherwise, blindness can occur quickly.  

What Are Risk Factors for Glaucoma?  

Generally, those with the highest risk of developing glaucoma are African Americans over 40 years of age, anyone who is over 60 years of age, anyone with a family history of glaucoma, and individuals with diabetes. Overall, African Americans are up to eight times more likely to develop glaucoma, while people with diabetes are twice as likely as those without diabetes.  

Anyone suffering from heart disease or high blood pressure may also be at increased risk. Similarly, certain eye conditions, like retinal detachments or tumors, may lead to glaucoma. Severe trauma can cause alter eye structures, potentially causing glaucoma to develop, as well.  

Certain medications may also increase the chance of getting glaucoma. For example, prolonged corticosteroid use can cause someone to get secondary glaucoma as a side effect.  

Getting Screened for Glaucoma  

Open-angle glaucoma is a progressive condition. By getting your eyes checked regularly by an ophthalmologist or optometrist, they can look for signs of the disease before significant damage occurs.  

Along with gathering a patient history, they can perform visual acuity tests, use tonometry and pachymetry to measure eye pressure and corneal thickness, respectively, and conduct scans or the optic nerve to look for damage. If they determine you have glaucoma, they can take action to preserve your vision, including prescribing medications or performing surgery, depending on how your condition presents.  

While there is no cure for glaucoma, it can be managed. By catching it early, your chances of retaining your visual acuity go up dramatically. If you haven’t been screened for glaucoma recently or are experiencing any changes in visual acuity, it’s best to see your eye doctor as soon as possible.  

We’re Helping You See More Clearly 

Our team works diligently to care for our patients’ eyes, including screening for and treating glaucoma. If you want to ensure your eyes are as healthy as possible, schedule an appointment at your closest ECVA clinic.