Glaucoma in Glendale, CA 91203

Glaucoma Q&A

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a complex disease that causes serious damage to the optic nerve. This optic nerve damage results in progressive vision loss that cannot be reversed. At this time, glaucoma is the second most common cause of blindness.

Who is at Risk For Glaucoma?

Anyone can develop glaucoma. However, certain people have a higher risk level for glaucoma. People of African American descent are 6 to 8 times more likely to develop glaucoma than caucasians are. Once a person reaches the age of 60, their risk for glaucoma rises, with people over 60 being 6 times more likely to develop glaucoma as their younger counterparts. People who have primary open-angle glaucoma (the most common kind of glaucoma) in the family, especially if the immediate family members have glaucoma, are more likely to develop this type of glaucoma themselves. Other possible risk factors for glaucoma include eye injury, extreme myopia, hypertension, and thin corneas.

What is the SLT Laser?

The Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) procedure is designed to reduce or even completely eliminate the use of drops for glaucoma. This laser promotes fluid drainage from the eyes.

What is the iStent?

The iStent is placed within the eye during the course of cataract surgery. The purpose of the iStent is the lowering of intra ocular pressure (IOP). Since IOP is one of the most significant risk factors for glaucoma, the iStent procedure could reduce the patient’s reliance on medication for glaucoma.

What is ECP?

Endoscopic CycloPhotocoagulation (ECP) is a type of laser surgery that is often done either simultaneously with cataract surgery or just after cataract surgery. The ECP procedure has been used to help reduce or even eliminate the need for glaucoma medication.

What is Trabeculoplasty?

Trabeculoplasty is a procedure that is used to reduce or eliminate the need for glaucoma drops. The procedure should promote drainage of fluid from the eyes.