What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, often due to increased pressure inside the eye (intraocular pressure, or IOP), which can lead to irreversible vision loss and blindness if untreated.
Who is at Risk for Glaucoma?
Glaucoma can affect anyone, but it is more common in adults, and your risk tends to increase as you get older.
Other risk factors include:
- Patients with a family history of glaucoma
- Patients with diabetes, migraines, or high blood pressure
- Those of African, Asian, or Hispanic descent
- The use of long-term steroid medications
- Patients with severe nearsightedness
- Those who have had a major eye surgery or injury
If you are in one of these higher-risk group, comprehensive eye exams are essential. Glaucoma, the "silent thief of sight," often has no early symptoms, and a simple pressure check isn't enough. At Coastal Eye Group, our dedicated team, including glaucoma specialists, provides thorough testing, diagnosis, and personalized care to protect your vision.
Treatment Options for Glaucoma at Coastal Eye Group
Treating glaucoma focuses on lowering eye pressure to a safe, stable level to protect the optic nerve and preserve vision. At Coastal Eye Group, we offer a range of advanced treatment options tailored to your individual needs, including:
Prescription Medication
For many patients, oral or eye drop medications are the first step in managing glaucoma. These treatments help lower eye pressure, supporting your eye's health and protecting your vision over time.
Laser Treatments
Laser procedures help lower eye pressure by enhancing the eye's natural fluid drainage or reducing fluid production. They are quick, safe treatments designed to protect your vision and manage glaucoma effectively.
MIGS (Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery)
MIGS is a modern, minimally invasive approach to treating glaucoma. These procedures use tiny devices or techniques to improve the eye's natural fluid drainage, helping lower eye pressure with less recovery time compared to tradition surgery.
Advanced Surgery
For patients with severe or progressive glaucoma, advanced surgical procedures may be recommended. These surgeries help lower eye pressure when medications or less invasive treatments are not enough, protecting vision and preventing further damage.
Fellowship-Trained Glaucoma Specialists
John Hazelton, MD
Glaucoma Specialist & Cataract Surgeon
Serving Murrells Inlet
Carl Sloan, MD
Glaucoma Specialist & Cataract Surgeon
Serving Carolina Forest/Myrtle Beach
*All ten doctors at Coastal Eye Group can diagnose, manage, and treat glaucoma, with specialists available for more complex and severe cases.
Experience the Coastal Eye Group Difference
Join the more than 400,000 patients who have entrusted us with their vision and experienced our commitment to exceptional care.
Schedule your appointment at the office most convenient for you!