Glaucoma Care

Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” because it can progress without noticeable symptoms until vision loss occurs. At St. Charles Eye Center, we use the latest diagnostic tools to detect glaucoma early and provide treatment that helps preserve sight.

We use the latest diagnostic tools to detect glaucoma early and provide treatment.

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What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that cause progressive damage to the optic nerve, the large bundle of nerve fibers that transmits visual information from the eye to the brain.

This damage is usually, but not always, related to high pressure inside the eye (intraocular pressure, or IOP).

When the optic nerve is damaged, permanent vision loss can occur. Because vision loss from glaucoma is often gradual and starts with peripheral (side) vision, many people don't notice it until significant, irreversible damage has occurred. This is why early detection through regular, comprehensive eye exams is so vital.

Types of Glaucoma

The best defense against vision loss from glaucoma is early detection through a comprehensive eye exam. Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” because it can damage vision without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. During exams, we measure eye pressure, evaluate the optic nerve for signs of damage, and check peripheral vision. These tests allow us to identify glaucoma before it affects your sight, because once vision is lost, it cannot be restored. Understanding the types of glaucoma can help you recognize the importance of regular eye care.

 

Open Angle Glaucoma Diagram

Primary Open Angle Glaucoma (POAG)

Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma is the most common form of glaucoma in the United States. It develops slowly and painlessly over time, often without any noticeable symptoms. In POAG, the drainage angle of the eye appears open, but the fluid inside the eye does not drain as efficiently as it should. This causes a gradual increase in eye pressure, which can damage the optic nerve and lead to vision loss. Because the early stages of POAG are symptom-free, many people are unaware they have it until significant peripheral vision loss occurs—making routine eye exams vital for early detection.
Open Angle Glaucoma Diagram
Closed Angle Glaucoma

Angle-Closure Glaucoma (ACG)

Angle-Closure Glaucoma is less common but far more dangerous because it can progress rapidly. This condition occurs when the iris (the colored part of the eye) bulges forward and completely blocks the drainage angle, preventing fluid from leaving the eye. The result is a sudden and severe spike in eye pressure, which can cause permanent vision loss in a short amount of time.
Symptoms to watch for include: sudden and intense eye pain, blurred vision, eye redness, severe headaches, halos around lights, and nausea or vomiting. If you experience these symptoms, seek emergency care immediately—this is a medical emergency.
Closed Angle Glaucoma

How is Glaucoma Treated?

While vision lost to glaucoma cannot be restored, modern treatments are highly effective at slowing or stopping further damage—helping preserve sight. The primary goal of all glaucoma treatment is to lower intraocular pressure (IOP), which is the main risk factor for optic nerve damage.

Treatments typically progress through these stages:

Eye Care Icons_Dry Eye

Medication (Eye Drops)

Prescription eye drops are usually the first line of defense. They work by either reducing the amount of fluid the eye produces or improving the drainage of fluid, helping to keep eye pressure under control. Consistent use is essential for success.

Eye Care Icons__Eye Scan

Laser Therapy

Advanced procedures like Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) use a precise laser to enhance fluid drainage within the eye. This quick, in-office treatment can significantly reduce eye pressure and, in many cases, lessen the need for daily eye drops.

Eye Care Icons_2 tone Eye Dr

Surgery

If medications and laser therapy aren’t enough, surgical options provide long-term solutions. Procedures such as Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) create new pathways for fluid to exit the eye, offering more permanent pressure control with faster recovery times than traditional surgery.
Know Your Risk

Certain factors increase your likelihood of developing glaucoma. If you have a family history of the disease, are over age 60, or are of African American or Hispanic descent, your risk is significantly higher. Regular eye exams are critical for early detection and protection of your vision.

 

Don't wait for symptoms to appear—schedule your complete eye examination today.

Call us at (636) 946-6986 to book your appointment.