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Glaucoma is a common yet serious eye condition that can lead to permanent vision loss, often without any early warning signs. At Huffman & Huffman Eye Care Center, our eye doctors specialize in diagnosing and managing glaucoma with today’s most advanced treatments, helping you protect your vision for the long term.
Glaucoma refers to a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, usually due to elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). Over time, this pressure can impair your peripheral (side) vision and eventually lead to blindness if not treated.
It’s often called “the silent thief of sight” because vision loss can begin before you notice any symptoms. There are several types of glaucoma, but the most common is open-angle glaucoma.
This form progresses slowly and is often detected during a routine eye exam. Angle-closure glaucoma, a less common type, can occur suddenly and requires emergency care.
Who Is at Risk?
While glaucoma can affect anyone, certain people are at higher risk:
Adults over 60
People with a family history of glaucoma
Individuals with diabetes or high blood pressure
African American, Hispanic, or Asian individuals
People who are severely nearsighted
Early diagnosis is essential, especially if you fall into any of these categories. Regular eye exams are the best way to catch glaucoma before it causes vision loss.
Glaucoma Symptoms
In its early stages, glaucoma typically has no symptoms. As the condition worsens, you may notice:
Blurred vision
Tunnel vision
Eye pain or pressure
Halos around lights
Headaches or nausea (in acute cases)
Because symptoms often don’t appear until damage has occurred, proactive screening is key.
Glaucoma Treatment Options
Although glaucoma cannot be cured, it can be effectively managed to prevent further vision loss. At Huffman & Huffman, our eye doctors offer a range of treatment options tailored to each patient’s needs:
Prescription Eye Drops
Eye drops are often the first step in glaucoma treatment. These medications work by either reducing the amount of fluid the eye produces or improving fluid drainage to lower intraocular pressure. Your eye doctor will help you choose a drop regimen that fits your needs and ensure you understand how to use it properly for the best results.
SLT (Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty)
SLT is a non-invasive laser procedure that stimulates the eye’s natural drainage system to improve fluid outflow and reduce pressure. It is performed in-office and typically takes only a few minutes. SLT is safe, effective, and repeatable, making it a great option for patients who struggle with eye drop side effects or following the treatment plan. In some cases, it may even reduce or eliminate the need for daily drops.
MIGS (Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery)
For patients with moderate to advanced glaucoma or for those undergoing cataract surgery, MIGS procedures offer a surgical solution with fewer risks and shorter recovery times than traditional glaucoma surgeries. One example is the iStent, which is a tiny device inserted into the eye’s drainage system during cataract surgery. It helps maintain lower eye pressure and reduces long-term dependence on medications.
MIGS is an excellent option for patients who need greater pressure control but are not candidates for more invasive surgeries like trabeculectomy or tube shunt procedures.
Advanced Surgical Referrals
In cases where glaucoma has progressed significantly or if first-line treatments are no longer effective, more complex surgeries may be necessary. If your case requires advanced care, your eye doctor at Huffman & Huffman Eye Care Center will refer you to a glaucoma specialist who can perform the surgery while your eye doctor will continue to coordinate your ongoing management.
Whether you’re managing existing glaucoma or concerned about your risk, our experienced eye doctors are here to help. They will guide you through diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care with compassion and expertise.
Schedule a comprehensive eye exam at Huffman & Huffman Eye Care Center today!
