At North Idaho Eye Institute, our providers diagnose and treat glaucoma patients on a regular basis. We treat our patients using a combination medications, laser, and surgery. We also partner with many local optometrists providing consultation or diagnostic testing for glaucoma or patients who are suspicious for glaucoma. Because glaucoma is a chronic disease, it is important to have regular visits with an eye care provider. Our goal is to customize your treatment to your individual lifestyle needs while optimizing vision throughout your lifetime. Thank you for trusting us with your glaucoma care.
Glaucoma: Basic Facts
Glaucoma is a disease of the optic nerve that can lead to irreversible blindness or blind spots if not treated. It does not typically cause symptoms in its early stages, but can often be detected during a complete eye exam. It is estimated that three million Americans have glaucoma, but many of them are not aware of it. When glaucoma is diagnosed, it can be treated with medication such as eye drops, laser, or surgery. With appropriate treatment and follow-up, glaucoma patients can usually maintain good vision. Glaucoma patients often have elevated eye pressure, but this is not always the case.
Risk factors for glaucoma include:
- Age
- Family History
- Ethnicity
- High Intraocular Pressure
- History of Eye Trauma
- Diabetes or Systemic Co-Morbid Conditions (such as diabetes)
Glaucoma: Learn More
There are many types of glaucoma, including open angle, angle closure, secondary glaucoma, congenital glaucoma, or glaucoma suspect. For more information on glaucoma, please check out this link from the American Academy of Ophthalmology .
Glaucoma Treatment
Medication
There are a lot of medication options, ask your doctor so they can work with you to find the best solution.
Laser
If appropriate, our doctors can use a laser to do Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT), to reduce intraocular pressure.
North Idaho Cataract and Laser Center (NICLC)
Our NICLC also offers Microinvasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS). There are other more aggressive surgical options available in the region with a specialist, if needed.
Eye Drop Financial Support
We understand that drops may be expensive and we want to find a solution that allows our patients to continue to take their drops regularly. If your drops are too expensive, please ask to speak with our designated clinic representative regarding medication solutions to explore options including discount cards, possible consideration of generic alternatives, or programs that may help reduce your out of pocket cost.
Contact North Idaho Eye Institute to schedule your glaucoma screening, today!
