Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of vision loss worldwide, affecting millions of people. Known as the "silent thief of sight," glaucoma can develop without noticeable symptoms in its early stages, making regular eye exams essential for early detection. But what exactly is glaucoma, and how can it be managed? At Green Eye Care, we prioritize the health of your eyes by offering comprehensive glaucoma screenings and treatment options.

What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma refers to a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, a critical part of your vision system that transmits visual information from your eye to your brain. This damage is often caused by increased pressure in the eye, known as intraocular pressure (IOP). Over time, this pressure can cause irreversible vision loss if not properly managed.
 

There are two main types of glaucoma:
 

• Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma: This is the most common form of glaucoma. It develops slowly over time as the drainage system in the eye becomes less effective, causing a gradual increase in eye pressure. There are typically no symptoms in the early stages, which is why regular eye exams are crucial.
   

• Angle-Closure Glaucoma: This less common form occurs when the drainage angle in the eye suddenly becomes blocked, causing a rapid increase in eye pressure. Symptoms include severe eye pain, nausea, blurred vision, and seeing halos around lights. This is considered a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.
   

Why Early Detection Is Important

Because glaucoma can progress without noticeable symptoms, it often goes undetected until significant vision loss has occurred. Once vision is lost, it cannot be restored, making early detection critical to preserving your sight. Routine eye exams allow eye doctors to detect elevated eye pressure and changes in the optic nerve early on, providing the opportunity for timely intervention.
 

At Green Eye Care, we use advanced diagnostic tools to measure intraocular pressure, assess the optic nerve, and monitor any changes over time. If we detect any warning signs, we’ll work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan.
 

Treatment Options for Glaucoma

While there is no cure for glaucoma, early treatment can help slow or prevent vision loss. Treatment options typically focus on reducing eye pressure to protect the optic nerve.
 

• Medications: Prescription eye drops are often the first line of defense in managing glaucoma. These drops help reduce intraocular pressure either by decreasing fluid production in the eye or by improving the drainage of fluid.
   

• Laser Therapy: For some patients, laser treatments like Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) or Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI) can help improve the drainage of fluid from the eye, reducing eye pressure. These procedures are often minimally invasive and can be performed in-office.
   

• Surgery: In cases where medications and laser therapy are not effective, surgical procedures such as trabeculectomy or glaucoma drainage implants may be necessary. These surgeries create new drainage channels to lower eye pressure.
   

Contact Green Eye Care Today

Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that can lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated. However, with early detection and the right treatment plan, it can be effectively managed. At Green Eye Care, we are committed to helping you maintain your eye health with comprehensive screenings and personalized glaucoma treatments. 
 

For more information on glaucoma or to schedule an eye exam, contact Green Eye Care by calling 347-757-5475 or visit our website at www.greeneyeharlem.com/book-online to book your appointment.