Glaucoma Care at Northwest Eye Surgeons
Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of permanent blindness worldwide, affecting nearly 80 million people. It is estimated that about half of those with glaucoma are undiagnosed. At Northwest Eye Surgeons, we recognize that early detection and comprehensive treatment are essential to maintaining your vision.
Our experienced physicians utilize the latest diagnostic technologies and treatment options to help patients manage this condition and protect their eyesight.
What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a disease that damages the optic nerve. The optic nerve carries visual information from your eye to your brain, and when it becomes damaged, permanent vision loss can occur. While often associated with increased eye pressure, glaucoma can occur even in the setting of normal pressure.
What makes glaucoma particularly dangerous is that it typically develops without noticeable symptoms in the early stages, earning it the nickname “the silent thief of sight.” The eye continuously produces a clear fluid called aqueous humor, which usually flows through the eye and drains out at a steady rate to maintain healthy pressure.
In patients with glaucoma, this drainage system becomes compromised, leading to fluid buildup and increased pressure that can damage the delicate optic nerve fibers. Left untreated, glaucoma can progress to complete blindness.
Who is at Risk for Glaucoma?
While glaucoma can affect anyone, certain factors increase your risk of developing this condition, including:
What are the Symptoms of Glaucoma?
Most people with glaucoma experience no symptoms until the disease has progressed significantly. When symptoms do appear, they often indicate advanced glaucoma and may include loss of peripheral (side) vision, tunnel vision, or blind spots in your field of vision.
However, a form of the condition called angle-closure glaucoma can cause sudden, severe attacks with symptoms such as:
If you experience these symptoms, seek emergency care immediately, as acute angle-closure glaucoma attacks can cause rapid, irreversible vision loss.
How is Glaucoma Diagnosed?
At Northwest Eye Surgeons, we employ comprehensive diagnostic methods to detect glaucoma early and monitor its progression. Our thorough evaluation includes:
For patients identified as “glaucoma suspects,” we provide regular monitoring with repeated diagnostic tests to track any changes that may indicate the onset of glaucoma.
How is Glaucoma Treated?
Northwest Eye Surgeons offers a comprehensive range of glaucoma treatments, from the latest minimally invasive procedures to traditional surgical options. Our treatment philosophy focuses on preserving your vision while minimizing the impact on your daily life.
Prescription Medications
Often the first line of treatment for glaucoma, prescription medications can reduce eye pressure by improving fluid outflow from the eye or decreasing aqueous humor production. Common glaucoma medications include:
Laser Treatments
Our advanced laser treatments provide effective, minimally invasive options for many glaucoma patients:
Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS)
Northwest Eye Surgeons specializes in the latest MIGS procedures, which offer effective pressure reduction with faster recovery times than traditional surgery:
Traditional Surgical Options
For advanced glaucoma cases, we offer traditional surgical approaches:
Trabeculectomy
This time-tested procedure creates a new drainage channel for eye fluid, effectively reducing pressure in cases where other treatments have been insufficient.
Aqueous Shunts/Tube Implants
Including Ahmed and Baerveldt devices, these implants provide controlled drainage for patients with complex or advanced glaucoma.
Why Choose Northwest Eye Surgeons
Our commitment to excellence in glaucoma care combines cutting-edge technology with compassionate, personalized treatment. We stay at the forefront of glaucoma research and treatment options, ensuring our patients have access to the most advanced therapies available.
If you’re at risk for glaucoma or haven’t had a comprehensive eye exam recently, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with our experienced team. Together, we can protect your vision and help you maintain the clear sight you need for all of life’s important moments.
