Glaucoma Treatment in Birmingham, AL

Glaucoma comprises a select category of diseases that can damage the optic nerve, which is responsible for sending visual information to the brain. If neglected, glaucoma will often cause permanent tunnel vision and/or complete blindness. It is virtually always due to elevated intraocular pressure from fluid buildup. At the beginning of the disease, glaucoma doesn't have any discernable symptoms and is frequently known as the "silent thief." Although a cure has not been found for the disease, it can be managed via early detection and the most effective treatments. At inVision Ophthalmology Birmingham in Birmingham, AL, we have the most up-to-date diagnostic techniques and are extensively trained in the best management methods.

The multiple types and stages of glaucoma often have no symptoms at all at first. However, each type may also present one or a few symptoms that feel mild or quite worrisome. When glaucoma starts to become more advanced, people usually first notice issues, like blind spots in their peripheral vision, dimmed vision, eye fatigue, and eye redness. As the disease progresses, symptoms can include halos, severely decreased peripheral vision, vomiting, and eye discomfort. Since glaucoma doesn't commonly present any symptoms at first, receiving regular comprehensive eye exams is key in discovering it early enough to prevent loss of vision.

The team at inVision Ophthalmology Birmingham has extensive experience identifying glaucoma using the latest diagnostic methods. During your appointment, we may try one glaucoma test or a combination of tests. First, we may administer eye drops to dilate your pupil and numb the eye. After that, we will evaluate the amount of pressure inside your eye with a procedure called a tonometry test. We will also measure the thickness of your cornea and the angle between the cornea and iris. During these tests, your ophthalmologist will capture images of the optic nerve and assess your total field of view to check for blind spots.

After a diagnosis of glaucoma is made, there are multiple treatments patients can choose from to manage the condition successfully. These approaches focus on alleviating intraocular pressure to avoid further trauma to the optical nerve. Most patients in the very early stages of the disease can often slow or interrupt their vision loss by controlling glaucoma with special eye drops.

For patients whose condition is more advanced, more intensive treatments, like MIGS (minimally invasive glaucoma surgery), laser procedures, and trabeculectomies, can greatly improve the condition. Whether we provide these treatments or refer the patient to a specialist, the inVision Ophthalmology Birmingham team of highly experienced ophthalmologists is committed to establishing the best solutions for our patients' eye health needs.

What is the best surgery for glaucoma?
The best treatment for glaucoma depends on a patient’s unique needs. During your consultation at inVision Ophthalmology Birmingham, our team of experienced doctors will examine your eyes to help determine which treatment is right for you. We may suggest a number of treatments, including MIGS, trabeculectomy, prescription eye drops, laser treatments, or glaucoma implant surgery.

How common is it to go blind from glaucoma?
Because of the effectiveness of modern glaucoma treatments, including medications, trabeculectomy, and MIGS, blindness caused by glaucoma is rare. Only about 5% of glaucoma patients in the U.S. go blind.

Can glaucoma be cured?
While there is currently no cure for glaucoma, with medication and treatments, its progression can be slowed. That’s why early detection with regular eye exams is crucial for maintaining the health of your eyesight.

At inVision Ophthalmology Birmingham, we regularly see patients living with glaucoma to assist them through managing the condition. It’s comforting to know that receiving a diagnosis and treatment in the initial stages can help you keep your condition under control. Our team recommends that anyone who has possible symptoms, a genetic predisposition to glaucoma, or a current diagnosis of glaucoma to plan a visit to our Birmingham, AL practice.