Glaucoma

Southern California Eye Consultants at the Cataract and Glaucoma Institute of Orange County

Glaucoma is a group of diseases that damage the eye’s optic nerve. Without treatment, glaucoma can progress to permanent, irreversible vision loss.

What is Glaucoma?

There are different types of glaucoma. Most occur when pressure in the eye (intraocular) increases, damaging the optic nerve but sometimes optic nerve damage can occur even when intraocular pressure is normal.

Diagnosing Glaucoma

Glaucoma often has no obvious symptoms and can be difficult to diagnose. During regular, comprehensive eye examinations with the ophthalmologist, many tests may be conducted to detect and diagnose glaucoma.

Types of Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a group of diseases that are progressive in nature. There is no cure for glaucoma, but with early detection and treatment, it is possible to slow the progression of the disease.

Glaucoma Treatment Options

Early diagnosis and treatment is vital to preserving vision. Routine vision screenings performed by your ophthalmologist can help identify glaucoma before extensive damage occurs.

Glaucoma Medications

To be effective, eye drops must be taken exactly as ordered by your eye doctor. Be sure to never skip doses or alter your treatment regime unless instructed by your ophthalmologist to do so.

Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS)

Newer minimally invasive surgical techniques for the treatment of glaucoma are generally considered both safe and moderately effective.

iStent Trabecular Micro-Bypass Stent

iStent® Trabecular Micro-Bypass Stent is a technologically advanced solution for mild-to-moderate open-angle glaucoma. The unique device can be implanted during cataract surgery, allowing both conditions to be addressed at the same time.

Other Surgical Glaucoma Treatments

Today, there are many innovative, technologically advanced surgical approaches being used in the treatment of glaucoma. Your ophthalmologist can fully explain the risks and benefits of each procedure and whether or not one is right for you.

Laser Surgery for Glaucoma

Laser surgery is frequently used in the treatment of glaucoma. The surgery is performed through the use of a precise, low-intensity light beam that allows for better outflow of the eye’s fluid.