Glaucoma Center

Understanding Glaucoma 

Glaucoma animation

 
Glaucoma, also known as “the thief of sight,” is a condition that results in the damage to the optic nerve and it usually develops gradually, often without any symptoms.  Loss of vision normally occurs gradually. Untreated, glaucoma permanently damages the optic nerve, leading to blindness. 

There are many types of Glaucoma, and the disease usually involves a situation where there is a buildup of aqueous fluid within the eye.  Although there isn’t a cure for Glaucoma, there are several treatments available to lower the intraocular pressure and prevent further damage to the optic nerve. 

At New Century Ophthalmology we offer thorough eye examinations that will help detect glaucoma early so that we can also provide the best treatments available to slow down any acceleration of the disease.

Glaucoma Causes

Glaucoma is an eye disease that most often develops after the age of 60. It is believed to be hereditary, and there have been several genes identified that relate to the development of high internal eye pressure. The condition causes a buildup of fluid in the front part of the eye, which increases the pressure in the eye. When the pressure increases, it causes damage to the optic nerve.

Once this damage occurs, it cannot be reversed. Therefore, it is extremely important to get your eye pressure tested on a yearly basis by visiting {PRACTICENAME).  This test is painless and relatively fast.  Below are risk factors are increase your chances:

  • 60 Years of Age or Older
  • Have a History of Eye Surgery
  • Have a Previous Eye Injury
  • Having Extreme Nearsightedness or Farsightedness
  • High Internal Eye Pressure
  • Other People in the Family Have High Eye Pressure

Treatments for High Intraocular Eye Pressure

Glaucoma can be treated, and the inner pressure in your eye can be reduced in order to prevent damage to your optic nerve. Common treatments include medications and/or laser eye surgery.  Our doctors will determine what type of treatment is needed.

Eye Medications

The most common treatment used to reduce internal eye pressure is daily eye drops. These eye drops can either decrease the amount of fluid the eye produces, or they can increase the flow of fluid through the trabecular meshwork.

Laser Eye Surgery

If the eye drops fail to adequately reduce the internal pressure in the eye, laser eye surgery may be needed. This surgery involves either opening the trabecular meshwork or creating a very small hole in the iris to increase fluid drainage.


To schedule your next eye exam to have your vision tested and to check for signs and symptoms of glaucoma, call us today at (919) 693-6661.

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Monday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

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8:00 am-5:00 pm

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