What Is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a disease in which pressure builds inside the eye and damages the optic nerve, leading to loss of peripheral vision. In severe cases, it can cause total loss of vision in one or both eyes.
Unfortunately, optic nerve damage is irreversible. Treatment focuses on preserving the remaining vision. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent progression of this debilitating disease.
Who Should Be Screened for Glaucoma?
Everyone should be screened. Recommended intervals are:
- Yearly for anyone age 50 and older
- Every 2 years for those under age 50
Risk factors for glaucoma include:
- Family history of glaucoma
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Long-term use of corticosteroid medications
How is Glaucoma Treated?
Traditionally, treatment began with prescription drops to lower eye pressure, while surgery was reserved for severe or progressive cases. In recent years, however, a new treatment paradigm has emerged with safer, more effective interventions such as Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT), injectable medications like iDose® and Durysta®, and Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS).
At Eye Doctors of Arizona, we utilize cutting-edge therapies and modern treatments rather than relying on outdated approaches.
Eye Drops
Prescription eye drops are typically used in combination with the above listed therapies as a first line of defense against glaucoma. They work by either reducing fluid production in the eye or improving fluid drainage, thereby lowering eye pressure. Drops are effective but require consistent daily use, and some patients may experience side effects or difficulty with long-term adherence.
Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT)
SLT is a safe, in-office laser procedure that improves the eye's natural fluid drainage. The treatment is quick, incision-free, and can reduce or even eliminate the need for daily glaucoma drops. SLT is often recommended as a first-line treatment to reduce reliance on medication and may also be an excellent option for patients who experience side effects from drops.
Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) – iStent
For patients undergoing cataract surgery or those requiring additional pressure reduction, MIGS offers a safe and effective solution. The iStent(pictured below)—about the size of a grain of rice—is placed inside the eye's drainage system to improve fluid outflow and provide long-term pressure control. It can also be performed as a stand-alone procedure for patients who are not undergoing cataract surgery or have already had cataract surgery in the past.
Injectable Treatments – Durysta® and iDose®
We also offer sustained-release drug delivery systems for long-term glaucoma management:
- iDose®: A tiny implant that continuously releases glaucoma medication over an extended period, providing consistent pressure control and convenience for patients who struggle with daily drops.
- Durysta®: A biodegradable implant placed inside the eye that delivers medication gradually for over a year, reducing or eliminating the need for daily drops.
Get Your Glaucoma Evaluated with Eye Doctors of Arizona
Get Your Glaucoma Evaluated at Eye Doctors of Arizona
Serving the greater Phoenix area—including Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, Glendale, Peoria, and Sun City—our team is here to provide expert glaucoma care.
📞 Call (602) 257-8280 today to schedule a screening or a second opinion about your glaucoma.
Now Enrolling in Research and Clinical Trials
Our practice is dedicated to advancing glaucoma care through research. We are actively involved in clinical trials, which may provide eligible patients with early access to innovative new treatments and the opportunity to help shape the future of glaucoma therapy.