Glaucoma care that protects the sight you have
Pressure checks, eye drops, SLT laser and glaucoma surgery, with regular monitoring at an office near you.
In short: glaucoma slowly damages the optic nerve, usually with no symptoms until vision is already lost, and that vision cannot be brought back. Regular pressure checks and early treatment can usually prevent serious vision loss.
Signs to watch for
The most common type has no early symptoms. Side vision fades so slowly that most people do not notice until damage is done, which is why regular eye exams matter after 40.
Who is at higher risk
- Adults over 40
- A parent, brother or sister with glaucoma
- Diabetes or heart disease
- Nearsightedness
- African American or Hispanic heritage
- Smoking
How we check for it
A painless pressure test (tonometry), a side-vision test, and detailed photos of your optic nerve that we compare over time to catch changes early.
What is happening inside your eye
Fluid constantly flows in and out of the front of your eye through a drainage angle beside the iris. When it drains too slowly, pressure builds and presses on the optic nerve, the cable that carries what you see to your brain. Nerve fibers die off a few at a time, starting with side vision, so you rarely notice until much is lost.
Explore the eyeHow we treat it
Prescription eye drops
Daily drops lower eye pressure. They work only when used every day as prescribed.
SLT laser
A gentle, painless laser that helps fluid drain. Results often show within a month and typically last one to five years. Some people can reduce or stop drops.
Trabeculectomy, Xen stent or Ahmed shunt
Creates a new path for fluid to drain when drops and laser are not enough.
Cyclophotocoagulation
A laser treatment, sometimes over several sessions, used when other options are not suitable.
Common questions
Can vision lost to glaucoma be restored?
No. Treatment protects the vision you still have, which is why finding glaucoma early matters so much.
Does SLT laser hurt?
No. SLT is done in the office and is painless. Any mild inflammation afterward is managed with drops.
Will I still need eye drops after SLT?
Some people can reduce or stop their drops. Others still need them. Your doctor will check your pressure and decide with you.
How often should I be checked?
Your doctor will set a schedule based on your pressure and optic nerve. Adults over 40, and anyone with risk factors, should have regular exams.
Talk to a Lumen doctor
Book online or call, and we will match you with the right doctor and office.