314-633-8575
314-743-8399Glaucoma Surgery & Treatment in St. Louis, MO
St. Louis Glaucoma Surgery Centers
Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” because in many cases, there are no symptoms. It progresses gradually and quietly. As many as 3 million Americans have glaucoma, though approximately half don’t know they have the disease. Left untreated, glaucoma can cause permanent vision loss. Fortunately, glaucoma is highly treatable. Regular comprehensive eye exams are important for early detection.
The glaucoma specialists of Galanis Cataract Laser Eye Center use the latest techniques and technologies to diagnose and treat glaucoma with the goal of halting disease progression. Schedule an appointment with a Galanis Cataract & Laser Eye Center glaucoma specialist today.
What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a sight-threatening disease that can cause damage to the delicate optic nerve that connects the eye to the brain. Most often, the damage is a result of chronic high pressure within the eye that slowly destroys the nerve fibers.
Glaucoma Risk Factors
Anyone can develop glaucoma, but it’s important to be aware of these risk factors:
Being over the age of 60
Being African American
Having a family history of glaucoma
Having certain medical conditions such as diabetes or hypertension
Having had an eye injury
Taking corticosteroid medications
Glaucoma usually shows no symptoms until permanent vision loss has occurred, so it’s even more important for those at higher risk to have regular eye exams to detect and treat glaucoma early. With early detection and careful management, significant damage to eyesight from glaucoma is nearly always preventable.
Types of Glaucoma
Open-Angle Glaucoma
Open-angle glaucoma is the most common form of the disease. This form of glaucoma leads to gradual loss of peripheral (side) vision, usually in both eyes, with tunnel vision in the advanced stages. Generally, there are no noticeable symptoms.
Narrow-Angle Glaucoma
Narrow-angle glaucoma (also known as closed-angle glaucoma) is less common. This form of the disease can lead to a rapid rise in intraocular pressure, developing very quickly with very noticeable symptoms. Symptoms include:
Severe eye pain
Nausea and vomiting (accompanying the severe eye pain)
Sudden onset of visual disturbance, often in low light
Blurred vision
Halos around lights
Reddening of the eye
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms above, schedule an appointment with one of our highly skilled glaucoma specialists today. Promptly seek emergency care if you ever experience severe eye pain, nausea and vomiting (accompanying the severe eye pain) or sudden onset of visual changes. Our highly skilled glaucoma specialists are here to support your vision needs.
Glaucoma Treatment Options in St. Louis, Missouri
Treatment may include medication, laser surgery, or other forms of eye surgery designed to alleviate pressure on the eye. Galanis Cataract & Laser Eye Center is the choice for patients who want the most advanced techniques for glaucoma treatment and surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Glaucoma is diagnosed during a dilated eye exam. Your eye doctor will perform a series of non-invasive tests, including checking your eye pressure, optic nerve health, and your peripheral (side) vision. Depending on your level of glaucoma or risk for glaucoma, appropriate treatment and follow-up care will be recommended.
While glaucoma typically has no symptoms, you should promptly seek emergency care if you ever experience severe eye pain, nausea and vomiting (accompanying the severe eye pain) or sudden onset of visual changes.
Everyone has unique eyes and their own needs and goals. Our Galanis Cataract Laser Eye Center glaucoma surgeons and specialists will discuss all your options, including the benefits of each available treatment as well as any potential side effects, to recommend a glaucoma treatment plan that is best for you.
Schedule Your Glaucoma Surgery or Treatment Consultation Today
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms described above, or know you have glaucoma, book a consultation with our St. Louis, Missouri glaucoma specialists. We’ll assess your eye health, discuss treatment options, and suggest a plan that’s a good fit for your needs.