Glaucoma

For decades, our dedicated eye doctors at North Park Ophthalmology have provided complete glaucoma care. We pride ourselves on ample one-on-one time with patients to deliver customized care using the most advanced medical technology and treatments to best preserve vision.

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a disease that occurs when fluid buildup increases pressure in the eye and damages the optic nerve. There are multiple types of glaucoma, however, two of the more common types are open-angle and acute-angle closure glaucoma.

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What are the Symptoms of Glaucoma?

The symptoms of glaucoma will vary depending on which type you have and how advanced the condition has become.

The symptoms of open-angle glaucoma are:

Tunnel vision (in advanced stages)
Patchy blind spots in peripheral/central vision (usually in both eyes)

The symptoms of acute-angle closure glaucoma are:

Severe headache
Halos around lights
Eye pain and redness
Nausea
Vomiting
Blurred vision

Who is Most Affected by Glaucoma?

The following groups are at an increased risk for developing glaucoma:

Near/farsighted people
People of African-American, Hispanic, Asian or Indigenous descent
Age 40+
Those with a family history of glaucoma
Those that have experienced trauma to the eyes
Diabetics
Steroid users

What Treatment Options Are Available for Glaucoma?

There are several effective treatment options available for managing glaucoma and lowering eye pressure to prevent vision loss. Each approach works in different ways to lower eye pressure. However, the key is finding the right treatment or combination of treatments tailored to the type and severity of glaucoma.

Glaucoma Eye Drops

Glaucoma eye drops are often the first line of treatment for glaucoma. These medicated drops work to reduce eye pressure by decreasing the amount of aqueous humor fluid produced in the eye or improving its drainage. These medications are typically prescribed as soon as glaucoma is diagnosed and must be used daily to control eye pressure.

YAG Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI)

A YAG laser peripheral iridotomy (LPI) is a quick, non-invasive laser procedure used to treat angle closure glaucoma. During LPI, your North Park Ophthalmology eye doctor will use a special YAG laser to create a tiny hole in the iris to improve fluid flow between the front and back of the eye. This helps eye pressure levels and helps prevent acute angle closure attacks in those with narrow angles. The procedure takes just minutes and is not painful.

Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT)

Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) is a laser treatment for open-angle glaucoma. This outpatient procedure involves carefully targeting a part of the trabecular meshwork, which is the drainage channels of the eye, to stimulate drainage pathways and reduce eye pressure. SLT provides similar pressure reduction as medication and may delay the need for surgery.

Compassionate, Patient-Focused Doctors

Expert-Level Glaucoma Treatment

Here at North Park Ophthalmology, we have decades of clinical experience in the diagnosis and treatment of all types of glaucoma. We pride ourselves on using only the latest technological advancements to provide patients with the best possible clinical outcomes. Our eye doctors develop personalized treatment plans for every patient, to ensure that the treatment addresses their symptoms and unique lifestyle needs. If you are looking for a Pittsburgh ophthalmologist who is caring, compassionate and focused on you, look no further than North Park Ophthalmology. Put your ‘best glaucoma specialist near me’ searches to rest and schedule an appointment with us today!