Glaucoma Treatment
Glaucoma is often called the “sneak thief of sight” because it can damage your vision before you notice anything is wrong. Our doctors at Vision Care of Maine treat glaucoma, helping patients protect the vision they still have.
What Is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a disease that causes damage to the optic nerve, resulting in permanent vision loss. It’s often called the “sneak thief of sight” because it can go undetected until permanent damage has been done. Our doctors at Vision Care of Maine stress the importance of routine eye exams, as this is the only way to detect glaucoma in its early stages.
A healthy eye has a drainage system that keeps fluid flowing in and out at safe levels. When this drainage system is compromised, fluid can’t escape the eye fast enough, and pressure inside the eye rises to dangerous levels. Increased intraocular pressure damages the optic nerve and over time can lead to permanent vision loss.
This intraocular pressure is measured at routine eye exams. The earlier we catch it, the more vision we can save.
Glaucoma Risk Factors
Some people are more likely to develop glaucoma than others. If any of these apply to you, regular eye exams are especially important:
- Age over 60. Risk increases as you get older.
- Family history. If a parent or sibling has glaucoma, your risk is higher.
- African, Hispanic, or Asian descent. Glaucoma is more common in these populations.
- High eye pressure. The biggest risk factor we can measure.
- Diabetes or high blood pressure. Both increase glaucoma risk.
- Past eye injury or surgery. Can affect the eye’s drainage system.
- Long-term steroid use. Especially eye drops with steroids.
Glaucoma Risk Assessment
Answer these 6 questions to see if you might be at higher risk for glaucoma. This is a screening tool, not a diagnosis.
1. Are you 60 years of age or older?
2. Do you have a parent, sibling, or child with glaucoma?
3. Have you been told you have high eye pressure?
4. Do you have diabetes or high blood pressure?
5. Have you had a serious eye injury or eye surgery in the past?
6. Are you of African, Hispanic, or Asian descent?
How We Treat Glaucoma
Sight lost from glaucoma cannot be restored, but today’s treatments make it possible to protect your remaining vision. Our doctors at Vision Care of Maine understand that a glaucoma diagnosis can be hard to hear. We’ll walk you through your options and find the right treatment for your situation.
Glaucoma treatments vary depending on the type and severity of your case. We start with the least invasive option and move up only if needed.
Eye Drops
First line of treatment for most patients.
Prescription eye drops lower the pressure inside your eye and slow or stop vision loss. There are several types available, and we’ll find the one that works best for you with the fewest side effects.
Laser Treatment
For patients who need more than drops, or who struggle with drop adherence.
Laser procedures can improve the eye’s natural drainage system and reduce pressure. They’re done in the office, take just a few minutes per eye, and don’t require hospitalization.
Glaucoma Surgery
For advanced cases or when other treatments aren’t working.
When drops and laser aren’t enough, surgical procedures can create new drainage pathways or reduce fluid production in the eye. Modern glaucoma surgery is more targeted and has shorter recovery times than older techniques.
Glaucoma Care You Can Count On
Early Detection
Advanced testing equipment to catch glaucoma in its earliest stages.
Full Treatment Range
Drops, laser, and surgical options under one practice.
4 Convenient Locations
From Bangor to Madawaska, you don’t have to drive far for care.
Decades of Experience
Nearly 50 years caring for the eye health of Northern Maine.
Glaucoma Specialists
Our doctors who specialize in glaucoma diagnosis and treatment.
Locations Offering Glaucoma Care
Schedule a Glaucoma Evaluation
If you’ve been diagnosed with glaucoma, or if you’re due for your annual eye exam, Vision Care of Maine is here to help. Call today to schedule your appointment.