Glaucoma is a sight threatening disease that is usually caused by elevated eye pressure, which in turn causes damage to the optic nerve. There are two types of Glaucoma, the less common, Narrow Angle, which can lead to an acute rise in eye pressure, and is curative with a simple laser procedure. The other, more common type of Glaucoma is called, Open Angle; it is a slower, insidious disease, with mild increases of pressure over long periods of time. Peripheral vision is initially lost, but as the disease progresses, central vision can also be effected. There are no alarming signs of early glaucoma so it is important for the general population, especially those over the age of fifty, to have an annual glaucoma screening.

The first line of treatment for Open Angle Glaucoma consists of eye pressure lowering eye drops. Fortunately, a new class of glaucoma medications called "Prostaglandin Analogues" is on the market today, and they are very effective in lowering eye pressure.

There are several other classes of eye drops that can be used additively to further enhance the lowering of eye pressure. If pressure cannot be controlled adequately with eye drops, a laser treatment would be the second line of treatment. If laser treatments were unsuccessful in controlling the pressure, a surgical procedure would usually be recommended.

At the Ullman Eye Center, we are experts in the medical, laser and surgical treatment of glaucoma, and have the latest imaging devices and diagnostic tests to aid in the diagnosis and management of this disease. In addition, Dr. Ullman participates in clinical trials, testing new treatments for glaucoma. If you have glaucoma and would like to participate in a clinical trial, please contact our office.

We invite you to contact the Ullman Eye Center to discuss your needs or any questions you may have.  Simply complete our form, or you may send an e-mail to: info@ullmaneyes.com.