Comprehensive Glaucoma Care in Lynnwood & Bothell
Glaucoma is a leading cause of vision loss worldwide, often developing without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. In fact, more than 3 million Americans are living with glaucoma, but nearly half of them are unaware of their condition.
At Alderwood Optical and Canyon Park Vision Clinic, we provide comprehensive glaucoma testing and advanced treatment options to help protect your sight and preserve your quality of life.
What Is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, often due to high intraocular pressure (IOP). The optic nerve is responsible for sending visual signals to the brain—when it’s damaged, vision loss occurs.
Types of Glaucoma:
- Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (Most Common): Develops slowly, causing gradual peripheral vision loss.
- Angle-Closure Glaucoma (Medical Emergency): Occurs suddenly, causing eye pain, nausea, and rapid vision loss.
- Normal-Tension Glaucoma: Damage occurs even with normal eye pressure.
- Congenital Glaucoma: A rare condition present at birth.
Who Is at Risk for Glaucoma?
Anyone can develop glaucoma, but some people are at higher risk.
How We Test for Glaucoma
Since glaucoma often has no symptoms in the early stages, regular eye exams with advanced diagnostic testing are the best way to catch it before permanent damage occurs.
Our comprehensive glaucoma testing includes:
- Tonometry (Eye Pressure Test): Measures intraocular pressure (IOP).
- OCT Imaging (Optical Coherence Tomography): Produces detailed scans of the optic nerve to detect early damage.
- Visual Field Testing (Perimetry): Checks for blind spots or peripheral vision loss.
- Pachymetry (Corneal Thickness Test): Assesses corneal thickness, which can impact glaucoma risk.
- Gonioscopy (Angle Assessment): Examines the drainage angle to determine the type of glaucoma.
Glaucoma Treatment Options
While glaucoma cannot be cured, it can be managed to slow progression and protect your vision.
1. Prescription Eye Drops (First-Line Treatment)
Lowers intraocular pressure by either reducing fluid production or improving drainage. It must be used consistently—missing doses can allow vision loss to continue.
2. Laser Therapy (Minimally Invasive Option)
- SLT (Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty): Enhances fluid drainage to lower eye pressure.
- Laser Iridotomy: Creates a small opening in the iris to improve drainage in angle-closure glaucoma.
3. Surgical Options (For Advanced Cases)
- Trabeculectomy: Creates a new drainage channel to lower eye pressure.
- Glaucoma Drainage Implants: Small tubes are implanted to help drain excess fluid.
- Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS): A less invasive alternative with quicker recovery times.
The best treatment option depends on the type and severity of your glaucoma. Our team will customize a treatment plan that works best for you.
Glaucoma FAQs
Schedule Your Glaucoma Screening
Glaucoma often develops silently—don’t wait until symptoms appear! At Alderwood Optical and Canyon Park Vision Clinic, we use advanced technology to diagnose and manage glaucoma effectively. Schedule an appointment to protect your vision!