Glaucoma
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Hilla Steinberg, MD
Ophthalmologist Surgeon & Aesthetic Injector and Certified Laser Specialist & Aesthetic Center located in Upper West Side, New York, NY
Glaucoma is an eye disease that damages the optic nerve and is the second most common cause of blindness in the world. Anyone can develop glaucoma. Finding and treating eye disease early is the best way to prevent permanent vision changes. Hilla Steinberg, MD, is a board-certified ophthalmologist on the Upper West Side of Manhattan in New York City who provides comprehensive medical and surgical care for glaucoma. To schedule an appointment, call the office of Hilla Steinberg MD PLLC or book online today.
Glaucoma Q&A
What is glaucoma?
Glaucoma is an eye disease that develops when the pressure in the eye gets too high and damages the optic nerve, causing vision loss.
The increase in eye pressure often occurs from a buildup of eye fluid — aqueous humor. Normally, fluid levels in the eye stay constant, so the intraocular pressure (IOP) remains stable. When new aqueous humor enters, the same amount drains away through the drainage angle.
If the drainage angle isn’t working as it should, fluid and eye pressure increase, damaging the optic nerve.
What are the types of glaucoma?
There are a few types of glaucoma. These types include:
Open-angle glaucoma
Most people with glaucoma have open-angle glaucoma. With this type, you have tiny deposits that block the drainage angle, causing a gradual increase in fluid.
Closed-angle glaucoma
Closed-angle glaucoma is rare and acute. With this type, your iris blocks the drainage angle, causing a rapid increase in fluid and eye pressure.
With closed-angle glaucoma, you may develop sudden vision changes and have severe eye pain. This type of glaucoma requires emergency medical care to prevent nerve damage and severe vision loss.
Normal-tension glaucoma
You can have optic nerve damage without increased intraocular pressure. Dr. Steinberg calls this normal-tension glaucoma.
When should I get checked for glaucoma?
You should get checked for glaucoma if you have sudden changes in vision, eye pain, or headaches. However, it’s possible to have glaucoma and not have symptoms.
Dr. Steinberg recommends you start glaucoma screenings at age 40 or sooner if you have a family history of eye diseases. She performs a comprehensive eye care exam using state-of-the-art technology to measure eye pressure and assess eye health.
What are my glaucoma treatment options?
Dr. Steinberg takes a personalized approach to eye care and customizes your glaucoma treatment plan to best meet your needs. She may prescribe medications that lower eye pressure and slow down the progression of the disease.
She may recommend glaucoma laser surgery to improve drainage or eliminate excess fluid in some cases.
For comprehensive glaucoma care, call the office of Hilla Steinberg MD PLLC or schedule an appointment online today.
