At SoCal Eye, our experienced Glaucoma Specialists answer the most frequently asked questions about Glaucoma and Glaucoma Treatment. All care begins with a personalized consultation at our Long Beach clinic, where a SoCal Eye physician will thoroughly explain your diagnosis and recommend the best treatment options. If you have additional questions, please contact our office to schedule your Glaucoma consultation.
What Are the Different Forms of Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, often linked to high eye pressure. There are several types of Glaucoma, each requiring a specific approach to Glaucoma treatment:
Open-Angle Glaucoma
The most common form, Open-Angle Glaucoma accounts for over 90% of cases in the U.S., affecting more than 2.7 million Americans. This type progresses slowly and often without symptoms. If untreated, it can lead to peripheral vision loss and eventual blindness. Fortunately, advancements in Glaucoma detection and treatment have significantly reduced blindness rates.
Angle-Closure Glaucoma
This can be acute (sudden onset) or chronic. Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma is a medical emergency marked by symptoms like severe eye pain, nausea, blurred vision, and halos around lights. Chronic Angle-Closure Glaucoma progresses more gradually and shares similarities with open-angle.
Normal-Tension Glaucoma
Even when eye pressure is within normal ranges, damage to the optic nerve can still occur. Though rarer, Normal-Tension Glaucoma still requires regular monitoring and treatment similar to that of open-angle glaucoma.
Congenital and Juvenile Glaucoma
Congenital Glaucoma affects infants due to improper eye fluid drainage, while Juvenile Glaucoma impacts older children and young adults. Both forms are serious and require specialized pediatric Glaucoma care.
Secondary Glaucoma
Develops as a result of another medical issue—such as trauma, inflammation, or certain medications. This type may be open- or angle-closure.
Who Is at Risk for Glaucoma?
Anyone can develop Glaucoma, but risk is higher among:
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Individuals over 60
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African American and Hispanic populations
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People with a family history of Glaucoma
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Diabetics and those with high blood pressure
Long Beach residents over age 40 are strongly encouraged to schedule regular eye exams with a Glaucoma Specialist at SoCal Eye.
What Are the Symptoms of Glaucoma?
Most forms of Glaucoma, especially Open-Angle and Normal-Tension Glaucoma, are symptomless in early stages. That’s why an estimated 50% of those with Glaucoma are unaware they have it. Early signs may include:
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Reduced peripheral vision
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Difficulty seeing in dim light
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Blind spots in the visual field
Advanced Glaucoma can lead to central vision loss and total blindness if untreated.
How Is Glaucoma Diagnosed?
At SoCal Eye Long Beach, our Glaucoma doctors use advanced diagnostic tools:
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Tonometry – Measures intraocular pressure (IOP)
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Pupil Dilation – Evaluates optic nerve damage
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Visual Field Testing – Identifies vision loss patterns
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Pachymetry – Measures corneal thickness
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Gonioscopy – Assesses drainage angle function
What Is Normal Eye Pressure?
Normal eye pressure ranges between 10–21 mm Hg. However, Glaucoma can occur at any pressure level. During a comprehensive eye exam, our Glaucoma Specialists will assess whether your pressure is high for your unique optic nerve anatomy.
Does High Eye Pressure Always Mean Glaucoma?
Not necessarily. While high pressure increases risk, Glaucoma is defined by optic nerve damage—not just pressure. Conversely, some people with elevated pressure may never develop Glaucoma, while others with normal pressure do. Further testing is essential.
Can Glaucoma Be Cured?
Unfortunately, Glaucoma cannot be cured, but early diagnosis and Glaucoma treatment can prevent or minimize vision loss. The rate of blindness from Glaucoma has dropped significantly due to modern screening and therapies.
How Is Glaucoma Treated?
Glaucoma treatment aims to reduce intraocular pressure and preserve vision. Treatment options at SoCal Eye in Long Beach include:
Prescription Eye Drops
These lower eye pressure by either reducing fluid production or improving drainage. Most patients begin with this option.
Laser Surgery
Laser procedures, like trabeculoplasty (for open-angle glaucoma) and iridotomy (for angle-closure glaucoma), help fluid drain more efficiently from the eye.
Surgical Intervention
In advanced cases, surgery may be necessary to create new drainage pathways or implant drainage devices.
Our Glaucoma Specialists customize treatment based on the patient’s specific type and stage of Glaucoma.
How Can I Prevent Glaucoma?
Early detection is the best prevention. If you’re over 40, have a family history, or belong to a higher-risk group, schedule regular comprehensive eye exams with a trusted Glaucoma Specialist in Long Beach.
At SoCal Eye, we offer state-of-the-art diagnostics and personalized treatment plans to help you manage and monitor Glaucoma at every stage.
Schedule a Glaucoma Consultation in Long Beach
Concerned about Glaucoma or due for a screening? Contact the trusted Glaucoma Specialists at SoCal Eye today. We’re proud to be Long Beach’s leading destination for Glaucoma treatment and eye care.
