How Glaucoma Treatment Has Evolved: Protecting Your Peripheral Vision

Glaucoma is often called the "silent thief of sight" because it gradually damages the optic nerve without noticeable symptoms in the early stages. By the time people recognize vision loss, the damage is usually irreversible. But here’s the good news: glaucoma treatment has come a long way. Today, patients in Oradell and surrounding areas have more options than ever to protect their peripheral vision and preserve their quality of life.

Understanding Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, often due to increased pressure inside the eye. This damage can lead to gradual vision loss, starting with peripheral vision and, if left untreated, potentially leading to blindness. While anyone can develop glaucoma, certain factors increase the risk. Individuals over the age of 60, those with a family history of glaucoma, African American, Asian and Hispanic populations, and people with conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure are at a higher risk. Additionally, those with high eye pressure, previous eye injuries, or long-term steroid use should be particularly vigilant.

Why Early Detection Matters

At Riverdell Vision, we see too many cases where people delay their eye exams, thinking their vision is “fine.” Glaucoma doesn’t work that way. It’s a progressive disease that can take away your side vision little by little—until one day, you realize you’re missing details you used to see effortlessly.

Regular comprehensive eye exams are your best defense. They allow us to detect changes in eye pressure, evaluate the health of your optic nerve, and catch glaucoma before it starts affecting your daily life. If you live in Oradell or the surrounding communities, making your eye health a priority means you’re taking the best step toward preserving your vision for the long run.

Advancements in Glaucoma Treatment

Gone are the days when eye drops were the only way to manage glaucoma. While medicated drops remain an effective option for lowering intraocular pressure (IOP), today’s treatments are more refined, targeted, and tailored to each patient’s needs.

• Advanced Medications: Newer prescription eye drops are designed to reduce eye pressure with fewer side effects. Many now require just one application per day, making them easier to incorporate into a routine.

• Laser Therapy: Minimally invasive laser treatments, such as Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT), help increase fluid drainage in the eye, reducing pressure. SLT is a great alternative for patients who struggle with daily eye drops and has been a game-changer for glaucoma management.

• Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS): For those who need more than medication, MIGS procedures provide a safer, less invasive surgical option compared to traditional glaucoma surgeries. These techniques improve fluid outflow, lowering eye pressure with a faster recovery time and fewer complications.

• Cutting-Edge Diagnostic Technology: At Riverdell Vision, we use advanced imaging technology to detect even the smallest changes in your optic nerve and eye pressure. This means we can start treatment early—often before you experience any vision loss.

Protecting Your Vision Starts at Riverdell Vision

If you’ve never had a glaucoma screening or if it’s been more than a year since your last eye exam, now is the time to take action. Protecting your peripheral vision and maintaining lifelong eye health begins with early detection.

Riverdell Vision is here to provide the latest in glaucoma care, personalized to your needs. Contact our office in Oradell, New Jersey, by calling (201) 268-7566 to schedule your comprehensive eye exam today.