Understanding Glaucoma: Protecting Your Vision in Pittsburgh

Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” because it can develop without noticeable symptoms until significant vision loss occurs. This group of eye conditions damages the optic nerve, often due to elevated pressure in the eye. Left untreated, glaucoma can lead to permanent blindness. However, with early detection and proper management, vision loss from glaucoma can often be minimized or prevented.

At Lappen Eye Care, we are committed to helping our Pittsburgh patients protect their vision by providing advanced glaucoma screening, diagnosis, and treatment.

What Causes Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is typically associated with high intraocular pressure (IOP), but it can also occur even when eye pressure is normal. The condition damages the optic nerve, which is responsible for transmitting visual information from the eye to the brain. Common risk factors include:

• Family history of glaucoma
• Age (40+ for primary open-angle glaucoma, but younger for other forms)
• Diabetes or hypertension
• Thin corneas
• History of eye injury or trauma

Types of Glaucoma

1. Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma
   The most common type, this develops gradually as the drainage system of the eye becomes less efficient, leading to increased pressure. It’s painless and progresses slowly, often without symptoms until vision is affected.
2. Angle-Closure Glaucoma
   This less common type occurs when the iris blocks the eye’s drainage system, causing a sudden increase in eye pressure. Symptoms include severe pain, nausea, redness, and blurred vision, requiring immediate medical attention.
3. Normal-Tension Glaucoma
   Even without elevated eye pressure, the optic nerve can become damaged. This type is often linked to poor blood flow to the optic nerve.
4. Secondary Glaucoma
   Caused by an underlying condition, such as injury, inflammation, or diabetes, this type can be managed by treating the root cause.

Symptoms to Watch For

Glaucoma is often symptomless in its early stages. However, as the disease progresses, you may notice:

• Loss of peripheral (side) vision
• Difficulty adjusting to low light
• Blurred or dim vision
• Halos around lights (especially at night)
• Eye pain or redness (in acute cases)

How We Manage Glaucoma at Lappen Eye Care

At Lappen Eye Care, we use the latest technology to detect glaucoma early, even before symptoms appear. Our comprehensive glaucoma care includes:

• Intraocular Pressure Testing: Measures the pressure inside your eye.
• Optic Nerve Imaging: Tracks changes in the optic nerve over time.
• Visual Field Testing: Evaluates peripheral vision to detect early vision loss.
• Customized Treatment Plans: Options may include prescription eye drops, laser therapy, or surgical procedures to lower eye pressure and prevent further damage.

Schedule Your Glaucoma Screening Today

Regular eye exams are crucial for detecting glaucoma early, especially if you’re at risk. At Lappen Eye Care, we proudly serve Pittsburgh, McMurray, and Greensburg with expert eye care to protect your vision.

Don’t let glaucoma take your sight—contact us today to schedule an appointment and safeguard your eye health.