This subspecialty includes the treatment of glaucoma and other disorders that may cause optic nerve damage by increasing intraocular pressure.  Although early and uncomplicated cases are typically cared for by a qualified comprehensive ophthalmologist, our Fellowship-Trained Glaucoma Subspecialists, oversee the medical and surgical treatment of complicated cases of glaucoma in pediatric and adult patients.

More than 2.2 million Americans age 40 and older have glaucoma. Half as many may be unaware they have this potentially blinding disease because they have no symptoms.

Glaucoma is a condition in which the optic nerve is damaged. It can be associated with elevated pressure inside the eye and can lead to vision loss.

The exact cause of primary open-angle glaucoma, the most common form of the disease, is uncertain. However, some other forms of glaucoma may occur along with other abnormalities of the eye.

There are usually no symptoms at first, but as the disease progresses, a person with glaucoma may note visual symptoms, such as peripheral vision deficiencies. Symptoms for acute glaucoma crises are different and may include pain in the eye, haloes around lights, rapid onset of markedly decreased vision, among others.

Anyone can develop glaucoma. Those who are at higher risk and should have an eye exam at least every one to two years include:

• African Americans over age 40

• Individuals over age 60

• People with a family history of glaucoma

• Individuals that have experienced a serious eye injury

• People with other health conditions, such as diabetes (exam every year)

Although glaucoma cannot be cured, early detection and treatment can usually preserve vision. An Ophthalmologist (MD or DO), especially a Glaucoma Specialist, can help control glaucoma by lowering intraocular pressure with eye drops, laser treatments or surgery. However, vision loss due to glaucoma cannot be restored and, if left untreated, glaucoma can lead to blindness.