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Glaucoma: An Optic Nerve Disease

Risk Factors

  • Age over 60

  • Elevated intraocular (eye) pressure

  • Family history of glaucoma

  • African, Hispanic, or Asian ancestry (depending on glaucoma type)

  • Thin corneas

  • Diabetes

  • High blood pressure or cardiovascular disease

  • Prior eye injury or trauma

  • Long-term use of corticosteroid medications (especially eye drops)

  • Severe nearsightedness or farsightedness

Symptoms

Symptoms may vary depending on the type and severity of glaucoma.

  • Gradual loss of peripheral (side) vision, often in both eyes

  • Tunnel vision in advanced stages

  • Blurred vision

  • Halos around lights

  • Eye pain or pressure

  • Redness of the eye

  • Headaches

  • Nausea and vomiting (more common in acute angle-closure glaucoma)

  • Sudden, severe vision loss (in acute cases)

<p class="font_8">Glaucoma treatment focuses on lowering eye pressure to slow or prevent further optic nerve damage. Because glaucoma is typically a chronic condition, treatment is usually ongoing and tailored to the type of glaucoma and the amount of optic nerve change. One commonly used treatment is selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT), a safe and repeatable laser procedure that helps the eye drain fluid more effectively, which can reduce intraocular pressure. SLT is often used as an early treatment option and may reduce or delay the need for daily eye drops for some patients. Prescription eye drops are also frequently used to lower eye pressure. Different types of drops work in different ways—either by decreasing fluid production inside the eye or by improving fluid outflow. If drops alone do not provide enough pressure control, oral medications may be used in certain cases. For patients who need additional pressure reduction, surgical procedures may be recommended to improve fluid drainage and better control eye pressure. The right approach depends on the glaucoma subtype, severity, and how well pressure responds to other treatments. In addition to medical treatment, healthy habits can support overall eye health. Regular cardiovascular exercise and a balanced diet that includes leafy green vegetables may be beneficial for general wellness. Most importantly, consistent follow-up visits are essential, since glaucoma can progress without noticeable symptoms and treatment plans may need to be adjusted over time.</p>

Contact Us

San Jose Office
455 O’Connor Dr
Suite 310
San Jose, CA 95128
Phone: (408) 294-3534
Fax: (408) 294-3214

Gilroy Office
9360 No Name Uno
Suite 210,
Gilroy, CA 95020
Phone: (408) 294-3534
Fax: (408) 294-3214

Call (408) 294-3534 for availability.

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