Our glaucoma exams in Albuquerque, New Mexico, can help detect the condition in its earliest stages before significant damage occurs.  
Glaucoma is a disease that affects the optic nerve, which carries visual messages from the eye to the brain. This condition is usually caused by high pressure in the eye. Damage to the optic nerve can lead to vision loss and even blindness, but if glaucoma is caught early, treatment can help preserve remaining sight.

There are two main types of glaucoma: open-angle and angle-closure glaucoma. Both types can cause severe and irreversible vision loss, and regular eye exams are critical to detecting the disease before serious damage occurs.

At Casey Optical Co., Dr. Christine Kniffen can diagnose glaucoma and a range of other conditions during an eye exam. Early detection is critical to managing the condition and preventing permanent vision loss.

Glaucoma diagnosis in Albuquerque, NM 

Glaucoma, often referred to as the “silent thief of sight,” can have no symptoms in its early stages. Patients may not experience any vision loss until the disease progresses to its advanced stages. 

Fortunately, early diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma can minimize or prevent damage to the optic nerve and subsequent vision loss. Since glaucoma can develop without any symptoms, regular eye exams are critical to detecting early signs of this condition. During an eye exam at Casey Optical Co., Dr. Kniffen will measure your eye pressure and check for other signs of the disease. If you are diagnosed with glaucoma, she will develop a personalized treatment plan to help preserve your vision.   

Treatment for glaucoma    

While there is no cure for glaucoma, proper treatment and management can greatly delay or reduce the adverse effects of the disease.  If you have glaucoma, Dr. Kniffen will develop a treatment plan that fits your unique needs. Depending on the type and severity of your glaucoma, we will explore various treatment options to help manage your eye pressure effectively and protect your vision. 

Glaucoma treatment and management may include:   

• Prescription eye drops  
• Medicine    
• Surgery    

When other treatments are no longer effective in lowering your eye pressure, surgery will be recommended. We will refer you to an ophthalmologist in your area who will examine your eyes and determine if surgery is required. After your surgery, Dr. Kniffen will provide ongoing support and monitor your progress during follow-up visits. 

The goal of treatment is to reduce eye pressure and prevent further damage to the optic nerve. In some cases, we may recommend more frequent eye exams to monitor your progress and ensure that the treatment is working. 

Schedule a glaucoma exam in Albuquerque 

Our highly skilled and dedicated optometrist is here to support your vision needs. If you are noticing any changes in your vision, schedule your eye exam with Casey Optical Co. today.