Glaucoma
Don't Wait Until It's Too Late Call our Denver practice today!
Changes in your vision might seem minor, but they can be a symptom of something more serious. The earlier you see an optometrist or ophthalmologist, the better your prognosis can be. Damage to the optic nerve cannot be reversed, and early intervention is critical. Glaucoma rarely presents immediate symptoms, so as soon as you notice any changes in your vision, it is important to reach out to an ophthalmologist or optometrist who can determine the right course of action. Our doctors are experts in their fields who can help you maintain your vision.
We work hard to create a home-like environment at our ophthalmology office in Denver, CO, and take our time with each patient to ensure all of your vision needs are met. When necessary, we can provide same-day appointments. Don't risk your vision. Call us today:
(303) 777-3277
What Is Glaucoma? A Group of Eye Disorders
Glaucoma is a set of related eye disorders that deteriorates your optic nerve, usually due to an increase in eye pressure. It is the second leading cause of blindness in the United States and the leading cause of preventable blindness. Most people will not even realize they have glaucoma until it has already caused permanent damage.
The Types Of Glaucoma
Glaucoma is an umbrella term for a group of conditions that damage your optic nerve. There are three main types of glaucoma: open-angle, angle-closure, and normal-tension.
This is the most common type of glaucoma and affects millions of people each year. Open-angle glaucoma is caused by defective drainage canals that prevent the fluid between your lens and cornea (the aqueous humor) from draining. This creates an increase in intraocular pressure. Patients suffering from open-angle glaucoma often present no symptoms. When left untreated, open-angle glaucoma can cause permanent eye damage and even blindness.
Unlike open-angle and angle-closure glaucoma, normal-tension glaucoma damages the optic nerve without an increase in eye pressure. Doctors are unsure of the specific cause of the optic nerve damage. Without routine eye exams, many patients are unaware they have normal-tension glaucoma until they lose their peripheral vision. Dr. Cushing and Dr. Coco can test your intraocular pressure, vision quality, and the health of your optic nerve to prevent vision loss from this type of glaucoma.
Far less common than open-angle glaucoma, angle-closure glaucoma is caused by a blocked drainage canal, which creates a sudden rise in eye pressure. Due to the rapid increase of intraocular pressure, patients suffering from angle-closure glaucoma will typically experience headaches, eye pain, nausea, blurred vision, and rainbows around lights at night. It is important to see your eye doctor right away if you are experiencing any of these symptoms.
Praise For Our Denver, CO, Eye Practice
"Very professional I had a very successful cataract surgery and Lasik mini years before that. Personally I have loved almost never wearing glasses!" Dan Reed
What Are Risk Factors Of Developing Glaucoma?
Anyone can be affected by glaucoma, but certain groups have a higher risk factor of developing the condition. You should receive routine eye exams, especially if you have/are:
- Over the Age of 60
- African American, Hispanic, or Asian
- Family History of the Disease
- Diabetes
- High Blood Pressure
- Thin Corneas
- Suffered an Eye Injury
- Nearsighted or Farsighted
Regular Eye Exams Can Save Your Sight
If you have glaucoma, visiting your optometrist can save your vision. Many patients are surprised to learn that almost 2.5 million people have glaucoma and more than half of these people do not realize they have the disease. In fact, glaucoma is known as the "silent thief of sight" because there are often no warning symptoms.
Dr. Cushing and Dr. Coco are experts in the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma. They use the most advanced technology to detect and monitor the disease. Seeing our doctors is the best way to prevent vision loss. Contact our Denver, CO, practice if you are experiencing any symptoms, or if you are due for a routine eye exam.
(303) 777-3277
See Why Colorado Chooses Us For Their Eye Care
Linda Gibas
2021
Dr. Coco and his staff a very professional and helpful. I credit them with the good eyesight I have today!
View on GoogleRick Shecter
2021
Dr Coco and his staff are truly caring and more importantly, skilled in eye health.
View on GoogleGlaucoma Is Preventable With Regular Eye Exams
Many of you may remember a famous Minnesota Twins baseball player named Kirby Puckett. In 1995, Kirby Puckett was the MVP of the World Series and the next year, he was blind in one eye. At the age of 35, his baseball career was over. This was catastrophic for the Minnesota Twins, their fans, Kirby Puckett, and his friends and family. Let the story of this baseball legend be a lesson regarding regular eye exams. Regular eye exams can save your vision because glaucoma can be treated if detected.
How Often Should I Get An Eye Exam To Detect the Signs of Glaucoma?
- Ages 20-29: You should have at least one eye exam in your 20s. If you have a family history of glaucoma or if you are of African descent, we recommend an eye exam every three to five years.
- Ages 30-39: A minimum of two eye exams is recommended for this age group. People with a family history of glaucoma or of African descent should have an eye exam every two to four years.
- Ages 40-64: Every two to four years.
- Age 65 or older: Every one to two years.
Glaucoma Treatment Options At Our Denver Practice
Our doctors can develop an effective treatment plan based on the type and severity of your glaucoma. They will always start with the least-invasive treatment possible before moving on to other forms of treatment like surgery.
Eye Drops
Depending on the type, these prescribed eye drops will either increase drainage or decrease fluid production in your eye. The main goal is to decrease your overall eye pressure. Eye drops are typically the first treatment option used for the early stages of glaucoma.
Oral Medications
Prescription medication can also maintain healthy eye pressure and protect your optic nerve. These medications can either improve the flow of fluid within your eye or reduce the production of more aqueous humor. Oral medications can include prostaglandins, beta-blockers, alpha-adrenergic agonists, carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, and other drugs.
Ocular Nutrition
Our office can provide nutrients that boost blood flow to your optic nerve, providing the tissue with extra protection. While ocular nutrition cannot reverse vision loss due to optic nerve damage, it can help prevent the disease from progressing.
Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT)
SLT, a type of laser surgery designed to treat open-angle glaucoma, targets your trabecular meshwork–the part of the eye where your aqueous humor is drained. After treatment, the meshwork should be able to drain more efficiently. This surgery may be used in conjunction with prescription eye drops.
Micropulse Laser Trabeculoplasty (MLT)
Similar to SLT, MLT is also another form of open-angle glaucoma treatment. MLT also targets the trabecular meshwork and improves drainage, however, it uses shorter laser impulses that offer a gentler form of treatment.
Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI)
This is the preferred laser treatment for patients suffering from angle-closure glaucoma. The procedure removes the blockage and allows the aqueous humor to flow regularly. Following treatment, your intraocular pressure can be restored and your optic nerve can remain protected.
iStent®
This is a surgical procedure that usually takes place during cataracts treatment, so no additional incisions need to be made. The iStent works like any other stent in your body, by keeping a passageway open. The iStent is placed through the trabecular meshwork and into Schlemm’s canal, allowing the aqueous humor to pass through freely. This form of treatment is recommended for those with mild to moderate forms of open-angle glaucoma.
Glaucoma Treatment From Trusted Optometrists
Both Dr. Cushing and Dr. Coco have been practicing optometrists for over a decade. It is their mission to maximize the vision and eye health of every patient they encounter by providing the highest quality of care in a compassionate and efficient atmosphere. They understand the importance of getting to know their patients' vision goals and needs to provide the best form of treatment. Contact our Denver, CO, practice to schedule your appointment if you are due for a routine eye exam or if you are experiencing any changes in your visual field.
Denver, CO, Loves Our Office
Justin Petrafeso (GoBuffs)
2021
EVERY person working here is friendly and professional. They fixed my issue and put me at ease. As a first time patient, I’m here to stay! I highly recommend them.
View on GoogleMarianne King
2021
Usually I’m seen at my appointed time by very professional and knowledgeable people. They’re all friendly and easy to talk to. The doctor has patience and listens during the exam.
View on GoogleHow Do I Reduce My Risk Of Developing Glaucoma?
While glaucoma may not be altogether avoidable, and certain people have higher risk factors, advancement of the disease is preventable.
Attend Routine Eye Exams
Regular visits to your eye doctor are the best way to prevent glaucoma from stealing your vision.
Exercise
Being physically active promotes cardiovascular health, which can help prevent glaucoma.
Eat a Healthy Diet
A healthy diet helps you maintain a healthy weight and blood pressure, both of which can help prevent glaucoma.
Stop Smoking
Smoking has been linked to high blood pressure, cataracts, and diabetes. All of these conditions can lead to glaucoma.
Manage Stress
Finding ways to eliminate or manage your stress has benefits to your cardiovascular health, which helps prevent glaucoma.
Eye Care After Your Surgery What Glaucoma Patients Can Expect During Recovery
Immediately After Surgery
Eye surgery for glaucoma is an outpatient procedure, so you won't have to stay in a hospital afterward. You will need to arrange a ride home, however, as it will take a couple of days to recover from the side effects. Redness, blurred vision, and irritation are some common symptoms following glaucoma surgery.
Wearing Eye Protection
As part of the recovery process after the surgery, an eyepatch or shield will be placed over the treated eye. When the eye protection is no longer needed, you may be prescribed eye drops to help manage irritation.
Activities to Avoid
During the recovery process, you should avoid driving, reading, heavy lifting, or any strenuous exercise until your doctor says it's safe to do so again.
Follow-up Appointments
Like any major medical procedure, you should attend follow-up appointments after your eye surgery so our doctors can make sure your eye is healing properly. If your vision continues to be blurry during recovery and doesn't seem to be improving, contact us and we can provide you with a new prescription that will improve your vision.
Why Our Denver Doctors Are the Right Choice
Experienced and compassionate, Dr. Cushing and Dr. Coco can provide top-quality glaucoma care.
Are You Struggling to
See Things Clearly?
Come Get an Eye Exam at
Our Denver, CO, Office
Glaucoma symptoms can be disorienting. Some patients notice a quick decline in their vision, while other patients gradually notice blindspots, blurring, and other signs of vision loss. Regardless of your situation, you should not wait to contact our Denver ophthalmology office.
Early detection is key when it comes to saving your vision from glaucoma. If you can't remember the last time you had your eyes checked and are experiencing issues with vision quality, come to Hines Sight for an eye exam. We serve Denver and surrounding Colorado communities. Glaucoma symptoms can intensify quickly and without warning. The sooner we can diagnose the health of your eyes, the better the chances of preserving your vision.
Send us a message through our website or call:
(303) 777-3277
"I Always Have a Great Visit!"
Professional staff always friendly and they get my jokes. I always have a great visit! I've been coming to this office for a very long time and have had the best treatments! I would highly recommend! M Weber
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get LASIK if I have glaucoma?
In advanced cases, glaucoma can disqualify you from LASIK. However, speak to your ophthalmologist at our Colorado practice, because it is possible for patients with mild glaucoma to have LASIK performed.
Is glaucoma treatment covered by insurance?
Most medical insurances cover glaucoma treatment. However, it is important to remember that each plan is different, and there might be some out-of-pocket costs for some patients. We accept most insurance plans and can work directly with your provider to help you get the most from your benefits. For those without insurance, we accept CareCredit® financing to help cover out-of-pocket costs.
Does glaucoma testing hurt?
No! Testing for glaucoma is painless. When using anesthetic eye drops for certain tests such as gonioscopy, there may be a slight burning sensation initially when the drops are applied, but it will not last long.
Don't Risk Your Eyesight
"Dr. Coco was thorough, informative, and relaxed." Why Denver Trusts Our Doctors
Skip Rodgers
2021
Stanley Cushing is a great eye doctor. He takes the time to answer your questions. Great care by the support staff. Office staff is friendly.
View on GoogleCarol Emrick
2021
Staff was friendly and efficient, keeping me informed about wait times. It was a pleasant experience where all my questions were answered and Dr Coco was thorough, informative and relaxed.
View on Google
