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Long Island Main Office:
Rockville Centre
Ryan Medical Arts Building
2000 North Village Avenue
Suite 402
Rockville Centre, Long Island, NY 11570
Tel: 516-766-2519
Glaucoma Long Island FAQs
Below is a list of some frequently asked questions, but please feel free to contact us if you need additional information. We are always pleased to assist you.
- What is Glaucoma?
- What are the signs and symptoms?
- Who is at highest risk of developing glaucoma?
- How is Glaucoma diagnosed?
- How is Glaucoma treated?
Glaucoma refers to a group of diseases that have in common a characteristic optic nerve disease and associated visual field loss. Elevated pressure within the eye (intraocular pressure) is the most common risk factor for developing glaucoma. Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness in the United State with more than 2 million Americans are currently afflicted with this potentially blinding disorder.
What are the signs and symptoms?
In most cases, there are no warning signs. In the later stages of the disease, some symptoms may occur. These can include:
- Loss of side vision (also called peripheral vision)
- Difficulty focusing on close work
- Seeing colored rings or halos around lights
- Headaches and eye pain
- Frequent changes of prescription glasses
- Difficulty adjusting eyes to the dark
The best way to find out if you have glaucoma is to get regular and complete eye exams.
Who is at highest risk of developing glaucoma?
Glaucoma can affect all ages, young and old. It is the leading cause of blindness in African-Americans. People at greater risk include those:
- Over the age of 60
- Who are African-American over age 40
- With relatives who have glaucoma
- Who have diabetes
- Who are very nearsighted
A complete dilated eye exam is essential to detect and treat glaucoma. Once glaucoma is suspected, a formal visual field test with an automated device called a perimeter should be performed.
Treatment of glaucoma usually begins with topical eye drops, but if poorly controlled, may require laser surgery or advanced glaucoma surgery to lower the eye pressure.
