Glaucoma Treatment from Your Ophthalmologist in Alexandria, VA

As one of the leading causes of blindness among U.S. residents, glaucoma is a particular concern because it can steal sight when untreated. Our ophthalmologist, Dr. Sina J. Sabet, provides expert eye care in diagnosing and treating this condition at our ophthalmology practice in Alexandria.

An Overview of Glaucoma

Most glaucoma cases develop due to elevated pressure within an eye. Of the two primary types, open-angle is more common than angle-closure disease. Some of our ophthalmologist's patients suffer from a normal-tension disease, which is a third type that occurs even with normal eye pressure.

Damage to the eyes occurs when the aqueous humor fails to drain properly. Blocked fluid exerts pressure on the optic nerve, eventually causing damage and affecting sight as the disease progresses.

Early diagnosis is critical since symptoms can remain hidden until glaucoma is advanced. Sometimes, the first thing most people with glaucoma notice before a diagnostic eye exam is reduced peripheral vision.

Symptoms vary according to the type of disease present. However, the most frequent include loss of vision, red eyes, seeing halos around lights, tunnel vision, eye pain, blurry vision, and nausea with or without vomiting.

Reaching the age of 40 is a major risk factor for this condition. Others include:

• Genetics
• Having diabetes
• Having poor vision
• Specific ethnic background
• Suffering an earlier eye trauma

Treatment Options from Our Ophthalmology Practice

The goal of our ophthalmology practice for glaucoma patients is early diagnosis and treatment to save as much vision as possible. A comprehensive eye exam includes various techniques to measure internal eye pressure, evaluate the drainage capability of an eye, and reveal any loss of peripheral vision. 

When this exam yields a positive diagnosis, patients, fortunately, have a number of treatment options to help preserve their vision while our doctor monitors them regularly. For some individuals, prescribed eye drops successfully lowers eye pressure. Others benefit from a combination of drops and an oral medication.

A variety of laser procedures, such as a trabeculoplasty, improve fluid drainage. A laser peripheral iridotomy creates a small opening in the eye and a new drainage path. Another option is surgically implanting a small tube in the eye to lower pressure on the optic nerve.

Schedule an Exam with Our Alexandria Ophthalmologist

Vision is precious. Help protect yours with regular eye care from our Alexandria ophthalmologist, Sina J. Sabet, MD, PC. Our ophthalmology practice offers the latest technology to diagnose glaucoma and other disorders and to help patients preserve the best vision possible. Be sure to call us today at (703) 370-9411 to schedule an appointment for your next eye exam and take advantage of our comprehensive eye care services.