Glaucoma

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma refers to a group of eye disorders that affect vision. Ocular hypertension, or higher-than-normal pressure inside the eye, is usually what causes damage. A normally-functioning eye contains fluid that is constantly produced and drained from the eye, maintaining a steady amount of pressure that helps the eye to retain its shape and function. But if the drainage systems become blocked, pressure in the eye begins to build to excessive levels, posing a threat to the optic nerve.

The two most common types of this disease are primary open-angle glaucoma and angle-closure glaucoma. Open-angle glaucoma involves the steadily increasing loss of peripheral vision. Acute angle-closure glaucoma can involve reddening of the eyes, blurry vision, halos, and eye pain accompanied by nausea and vomiting.

Dr. Lalin and Dr. Shah can screen for early signs of glaucoma during a comprehensive eye exam. A tonometer will be used to measure your intraocular pressure (IOP), testing for abnormalities that can indicate the development of glaucoma. If early signs of increased pressure within the eye are found, our team can recommend you to reputable, experienced specialist for treatment to prevent further damage.

Who is at Risk?

Anyone over age 60 is at increased risk of developing glaucoma. This is especially true for Hispanics. African-Americans carry a risk of developing glaucoma around age 40. Patients of Asian decent are at a greater risk of developing acute angle-closure glaucoma, while those of Japanese decent are more prone to normal-tension glaucoma. Your risk of developing glaucoma becomes greater if you have a family history of the disease. Severe diabetic retinopathy has also been linked to an increased risk of developing glaucoma.

What Are My Treatment Options?

Unfortunately, glaucoma cannot be cured. However, early detection, treatment, and ongoing regular examinations can greatly minimize vision loss, and slow the progression of the disease. 

Depending on the severity of your condition, a glaucoma specialist may recommend a number of treatment options, including medicated eye drops, oral medications, or laser surgery. Each treatment option is administered with the goal of lowering pressure inside the eye. 

Retina & Eye Specialists of New Jersey Offers Minimally Invasive, Repeatable Glaucoma Treatment Option

Retina & Eye Specialists of New Jersey announced today that it will offer an exciting alternative for the treatment of glaucoma, using the IRIDEX Cyclo G6™ Laser System -an innovative system solely designed to treat glaucoma. The Cyclo G6 system features patented MicroPulse technology, making it possible for Name of Practice to provide glaucoma patients an effective, non-incisional treatment option that significantly lowers patient downtime.

Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness in adults. The Glaucoma Research Foundation estimates that around 4 million people in the U.S. and approximately 60 million worldwide are currently afflicted with the disease. The foundation has assessed that half of the millions of people with glaucoma are not aware of their condition -presumably not seeking medical care. Many of those who are aware they have glaucoma are averse to traditional therapy and do not comply with treatment, allowing advancement of the disease. Therapeutic intervention and compliance are critical in mitigating the consequential onset of blindness from untreated glaucoma.

A doctor of Retina & Eye Specialists of New Jersey stated, "MicroPulse provides a patient-friendly, clinically effective, and repeatable option that can potentially slow the progression of a disease that may require surgical intervention or cause blindness."

"The Cyclo G6 system extends the benefits of IRIDEX proprietary MicroPulse technology to our patients. It allows us to offer alternatives to-drug regimens or invasive surgical procedures for treating glaucoma. The new treatment with the IRIDEX Cyclo G6 Laser System will help us bring an innovative treatment to patients and hopefully encourage other glaucoma patients to seek and comply with treatment."

How Can I Protect My Vision?

The single most important step you can take in protecting your vision is to undergo regularly scheduled check-ups at our practice. Some studies have also indicated that exercise can reduce your risk of developing glaucoma. In addition to maintaining an active lifestyle and healthy weight, you can further reduce your risk by quitting smoking and eating a diet high in antioxidants. 

Schedule an Appointment

Our team combines a high level of training and experience with a compassionate approach to care. Trust your vision to the professional, caring team at Retina & Eye Specialists of New Jersey. Contact our practice today to schedule a consultation.