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Condition Guide

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is the term used to describe a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve — the vital connection between your eye and your brain. It is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide.

Most forms of glaucoma are caused by elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). Because the disease often progresses with no pain and no noticeable symptoms until significant damage has occurred, it is sometimes called “the silent thief of sight.” Early detection through regular eye exams is critical.

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Symptoms

What Are the Symptoms?

In most cases, open-angle glaucoma — the most common form — has no symptoms in its early stages. The following signs may appear as the disease progresses:

01
Peripheral Vision Loss

Gradual loss of side (peripheral) vision — usually in both eyes. Often not noticed until substantial optic nerve damage has occurred.

02
Tunnel Vision

In advanced stages, vision narrows to a small central area — like looking through a tunnel. This indicates significant and often irreversible nerve damage.

03
Acute Angle-Closure

Sudden severe eye pain, headache, nausea, blurred vision, and halos around lights — this form requires immediate medical attention.

Risk Factors & Diagnosis

Who Is at Risk?

Risk Factors

  • Elevated intraocular pressure (IOP)
  • Family history of glaucoma
  • Age 60 or older
  • African or Hispanic ancestry
  • Diabetes or hypertension
  • High myopia (nearsightedness)
  • Thin corneas
  • Previous eye injury or surgery

How We Diagnose

Dr. Woo offers the most advanced technology in diagnosis and treatment of sight-threatening glaucoma. A comprehensive evaluation includes:

  • Intraocular pressure (IOP) measurement
  • Optic nerve evaluation (ophthalmoscopy)
  • Visual field testing (perimetry)
  • OCT nerve fiber layer imaging
  • Corneal pachymetry (thickness)
  • Gonioscopy (drainage angle exam)
Treatment

How Is Glaucoma Treated?

While glaucoma damage cannot be reversed, treatment can slow or stop further progression. Our approach is tailored to the type and severity of your condition.

01
Medications

Prescription eye drops are usually the first line of treatment. They work by either reducing fluid production in the eye or improving drainage, thereby lowering intraocular pressure.

02
Laser Therapy

Laser trabeculoplasty improves drainage in open-angle glaucoma. Laser iridotomy creates a small opening in the iris to relieve pressure in angle-closure glaucoma. Both are performed in-office.

03
MIGS & Surgery

Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) offers faster recovery with less risk than traditional procedures. For advanced cases, trabeculectomy or drainage implants may be recommended to create new drainage pathways.

Early Detection Saves Sight

Annual comprehensive eye exams are the only reliable way to detect glaucoma before permanent vision loss occurs. Same-day appointments available.

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