Glaucoma is often called “the silent thief of sight,” and for good reason. This progressive eye disease can cause irreversible vision loss without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. At Grand Traverse Ophthalmology Clinic, we believe that awareness, early detection, and ongoing care are key to protecting your vision and maintaining a high quality of life.
What Is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma refers to a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve—the critical connection between your eyes and brain. This damage is most often caused by increased pressure in the eye, known as intraocular pressure (IOP), though glaucoma can also occur with normal eye pressure.
There are several types of glaucoma, but the two most common include:
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Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG): The most prevalent form, it develops slowly and painlessly, gradually affecting peripheral (side) vision first.
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Angle-Closure Glaucoma: Less common but more urgent, this form can cause sudden symptoms such as eye pain, nausea, blurred vision, and halos around lights. It requires immediate medical attention.
Why Glaucoma Is So Dangerous
Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. What makes it particularly threatening is its ability to progress without symptoms until substantial vision has already been lost. Since peripheral vision is affected first, many people don’t notice changes until the disease is well advanced.
Who’s at Risk?
Glaucoma can affect anyone, but certain factors increase the risk, including:
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Age 60 and older
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A family history of glaucoma
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African, Hispanic, or Asian ancestry
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Elevated intraocular pressure
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Thin corneas
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Chronic eye inflammation or injury
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Conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure
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Long-term use of corticosteroid medications
How Glaucoma Is Detected
Early detection is the best defense. A comprehensive eye exam—including measuring eye pressure, inspecting the drainage angle, examining the optic nerve, and testing peripheral vision—can identify signs of glaucoma before significant damage occurs.
At Grand Traverse Ophthalmology Clinic, we use advanced diagnostic tools to monitor changes in the eye and optic nerve, allowing for earlier and more accurate detection.
Treatment Options
While glaucoma damage cannot be reversed, treatment can slow or stop its progression.
Prescription Eye Drops: These help reduce eye pressure either by decreasing fluid production or increasing drainage.
Oral Medications: Sometimes used in conjunction with drops for greater pressure control.
Laser Therapy: Procedures like selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) can improve fluid drainage.
Surgery: For more advanced cases, surgical interventions may be necessary to create new drainage pathways or relieve pressure.
Our team works closely with patients to find the most appropriate treatment plan based on their specific diagnosis and needs.
The Importance of Regular Eye Exams
Because glaucoma often develops without early symptoms, regular eye exams are crucial—especially for those at higher risk. Early detection and treatment offer the best chance for preserving vision and preventing permanent loss.
Protect Your Vision with Trusted Care
At Grand Traverse Ophthalmology Clinic, we are committed to helping patients understand and manage glaucoma with comprehensive care and personalized treatment. If it’s been a while since your last eye exam or if you have concerns about your eye health, we encourage you to schedule an appointment.
Your eyesight is precious—don't let glaucoma steal it without a sound.