Understanding Glaucoma
Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma
Primary open-angle glaucoma is the most common form, and it usually develops without warning. Our North Wales team is experienced in detecting and managing this condition so you can continue enjoying clear vision for years to come.
This type of glaucoma occurs when the eye’s drainage system becomes less efficient over time, causing pressure to slowly build up inside the eye. Even though the drainage angle looks normal, microscopic blockages prevent healthy fluid outflow, which may damage the optic nerve.
You may be at greater risk if you:
- Are over 40 years old
- Have family members with glaucoma
- Are of African American, Hispanic, or Asian descent
- Have high eye pressure or thin corneas
- Have medical conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease
- Are very nearsighted (myopia)
Primary open-angle glaucoma often causes no symptoms at first, earning its reputation as the 'silent thief of sight.' Regular comprehensive eye exams are the best way to detect this condition early and preserve your vision.
Our eye doctors use specialized tests to diagnose and monitor open-angle glaucoma, including:
- Measuring eye pressure (tonometry)
- Evaluating the optic nerve and drainage angle
- Visual field testing to check for vision loss
- Imaging studies like optical coherence tomography (OCT)
The main goal is to lower your eye pressure and protect the optic nerve. Treatment options may include:
- Prescription eye drops
- Laser procedures to improve drainage
- Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS)
- Traditional surgery for advanced cases
Most patients living with open-angle glaucoma can maintain good vision with consistent treatment and monitoring. Our team at ReFocus Eye Health North Wales partners with you for lifelong care, providing support and education each step of the way.
Angle-Closure Glaucoma
Angle-closure glaucoma can occur suddenly or develop over time. It is less common in the Greater Philadelphia Region but is a serious medical emergency when it happens.
This condition occurs when the iris blocks the eye’s drainage angle, causing a sudden spike in eye pressure. Acute attacks require urgent intervention to save vision, while chronic angle-closure may develop quietly.
Risks include:
- Asian or Inuit ancestry
- Women over age 55
- Farsightedness (hyperopia)
- Family history of angle-closure glaucoma
- Cataracts that cause lens swelling
- Certain medications that dilate the pupil
Symptoms of an acute angle-closure attack may include:
- Sudden severe eye pain and headache
- Blurred vision or seeing halos around lights
- Redness in the eye
- Nausea or vomiting
- Eye that feels firm to the touch
Immediate treatment is essential. Our doctors use medications and laser procedures, such as laser iridotomy, to relieve pressure and prevent further attacks.
For those at risk, preventive laser treatment and regular follow-up appointments help reduce the chance of future acute attacks. Both eyes often require monitoring and sometimes treatment.
Normal-Tension Glaucoma
Normal-tension glaucoma causes optic nerve damage and vision loss even when eye pressure is within the normal range. Many patients in Montgomery and Bucks Counties benefit from our thorough approach to detecting and treating this condition.
This form of glaucoma is likely due to factors such as poor blood flow to the optic nerve or increased sensitivity of the nerve to pressure. The precise cause is still being researched.
You may be more likely to develop this type if you:
- Have a family history of normal-tension glaucoma
- Are of Japanese ancestry
- Are female, especially after menopause
- Experience low blood pressure or certain blood flow disorders
- Have health conditions like migraines or sleep apnea
Vision loss in normal-tension glaucoma usually develops gradually, starting with side vision. This condition is difficult to detect without a comprehensive eye exam, making routine checkups at ReFocus Eye Health North Wales very important.
Treatment involves lowering eye pressure as much as possible and supporting overall eye health, sometimes requiring additional therapies beyond standard glaucoma medications.
Secondary Glaucoma
Secondary glaucoma results from another eye disease, injury, or medication that interferes with normal eye drainage. Identifying and managing the underlying cause is essential for protecting vision.
Secondary glaucoma can be triggered by:
- Eye inflammation (uveitis)
- Long-term use of steroids
- Pigment or protein deposits blocking drainage
- Abnormal blood vessels from diabetes
- Injuries to the eye
- Cataract-related complications
Symptoms vary but may include eye pain, redness, light sensitivity, or rapid changes in vision. Our doctors use specialized testing to determine the type and cause of secondary glaucoma.
Treatment addresses both the root cause and elevated eye pressure. This may involve changing medications, treating inflammation or other diseases, or performing laser or surgical procedures if needed.
Congenital Glaucoma
Congenital glaucoma is rare but serious, affecting babies and young children. Early detection and expert care are critical for protecting a child’s vision and development.
This condition is present at birth and happens when the eye’s drainage system does not develop correctly, causing increased eye pressure that may damage the optic nerve early in life.
Parents should watch for:
- Enlarged eyes or differences in eye size
- Cloudy or hazy corneas
- Excessive tearing without crying
- Sensitivity to light
- Frequent eye rubbing or squinting
- Irritability that improves in a dark room
Surgical procedures are the primary treatment for congenital glaucoma, as medications are less effective in children. With proper treatment and ongoing follow-up, many children can achieve good vision and lead healthy lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
We understand that glaucoma can be confusing and sometimes overwhelming. Here are answers to common questions we hear from our patients at ReFocus Eye Health North Wales.
There is no cure for glaucoma, but our eye doctors can help you manage it successfully to slow or stop vision loss. Keeping up with treatment and follow-up visits is essential for the best possible outcome.
Adults should have comprehensive eye exams every one to two years, or more often if there are risk factors like family history. After a glaucoma diagnosis, monitoring is typically needed every three to six months.
Healthy habits support your overall eye health. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, not smoking, managing stress, and following your prescribed treatment plan can all be beneficial.
Early-stage glaucoma rarely impacts driving, but more advanced cases with significant vision loss may require a driving assessment. Our team can guide you if you have questions about your ability to drive safely.
Yes, having a parent or sibling with glaucoma increases your risk. If glaucoma runs in your family, be sure to schedule regular comprehensive eye exams with us for early detection and peace of mind.
If you miss a dose of your eye drops, take it as soon as you remember. Do not double up, and contact our team if you have trouble remembering doses so we can suggest helpful strategies.
Yes, children can develop juvenile or secondary glaucoma from injuries, medical conditions, or medications. Any change in a child’s vision or eye appearance should be evaluated quickly by our team.
Your eye doctor checks your eye pressure, visual field, and optic nerve at each visit. If tests remain stable, treatment is working well. Routine follow-ups keep your care on track.
Yes, advances such as minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) and sustained-release medications offer more options for personalized care. Our practice stays current with new developments to offer you the latest proven treatments.
Glaucoma can cause blindness if it is not treated, but most people who follow their treatment plan with us retain useful vision for life. Early detection and ongoing care are key.
Sudden severe pain, rapid loss of vision, or seeing halos around lights may be a sign of a serious problem. Contact us or seek emergency care right away if this happens.
In addition to eye pressure checks, we use detailed imaging and visual field testing to examine the optic nerve and your peripheral vision. These advanced tools give us a comprehensive picture of your eye health.
Your glaucoma treatment is personalized based on your specific needs and type of glaucoma. Our doctors take the time to choose the best options for you, from medications to procedures.
Without treatment, glaucoma can cause permanent, irreversible vision loss. Regular visits and following our care plan are the best way to protect your eyesight now and in the future.
Most primary open-angle glaucoma cases are painless. Some forms of secondary glaucoma or chronic angle-closure glaucoma can cause mild pain or pressure sensations.
Glaucoma surgery creates new or improved drainage pathways to help eye fluid exit more easily, which reduces pressure inside the eye and protects the optic nerve.
Many patients find support groups and educational resources helpful. Our team can connect you to local and national organizations that offer support and information for people living with glaucoma.
Your Vision, Our Commitment
Glaucoma is a lifelong condition, but with ReFocus Eye Health North Wales by your side, you can feel confident in your care. Our skilled team welcomes patients from North Wales, Lansdale, Norristown, Horsham, and the Greater Philadelphia Region for expert, compassionate eye health services. Let us help you protect your vision at every stage of life.
Linda and Dr. Barouh were great—she removed object causing pain, provided details. Listening to them made the visit easier.
Bill Keen
I had a great experience; staff was nice and very professional. Dr. Clark informed me I have cataracts. I'm looking forward to seeing better. Thanks Dr. Clark.
Sandra Horn
Dr. Lindsey Barouh is extremely courteous and professional. Did not have to wait long at all. Thank you.
Maria Varki
Dr. Martinez did a complete eye exam. Technician took pictures of my eyes (no dilating drops). I was advised to continue dry eye care. Everything went smoothly.
Cecilia Frankford
My experience with this office is that they are efficient; the service is thorough and professional.
Carol Ray
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Wednesday: 8am-4pm
Thursday: 8am-4pm
Friday: 8am-4pm
Saturday: Closed
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