When it comes to managing glaucoma, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. With today’s medical advancements, patients can choose from a variety of treatment options, including prescription eye drops, laser procedures, and in some cases, surgical interventions.
At Everett & Hurite, we help patients across Pittsburgh and Southwestern Pennsylvania understand their glaucoma treatment options clearly and confidently. Our team of board-certified ophthalmologists offers both medication management and in-office laser treatment, allowing us to tailor care to each individual’s needs and lifestyle.
If you’ve recently been diagnosed with glaucoma or are considering a new direction in your treatment plan, this guide will help you explore your choices and prepare you for your next conversation with your eye doctor.
Common Treatment Options For Glaucoma
Glaucoma treatment is focused on lowering intraocular pressure (IOP) to prevent further damage to the optic nerve. Two of the most common approaches include prescription medications and laser procedures, each offering unique advantages depending on your diagnosis and lifestyle.
Medications
Managing glaucoma starts with lowering intraocular pressure (IOP) to protect the optic nerve and preserve vision. The two most widely used approaches are prescription medications and laser procedures, each offering important benefits depending on the type and stage of the disease.
Medications, especially prescription eye drops, are often the first line of treatment. These drops either reduce the amount of fluid your eye produces or help fluid drain more efficiently.
Common types include:
- Prostaglandin Analogs: Increase fluid drainage from the eye
- Beta Blockers: Decrease fluid production
- Alpha Agonists: Reduce fluid production and enhance drainage
- Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors: Lower fluid production
- Combination Drops: Blend two medications for added control
These are especially helpful for patients with primary open-angle glaucoma, normal tension glaucoma, and early stages of angle-closure glaucoma. When used consistently, medications can effectively manage eye pressure, though some patients may experience dryness, redness, or sensitivity. It's also important to note that strict adherence to a daily drop schedule is key to their success.
Laser Treatment
Laser treatment for glaucoma offers another option, often as a supplement or alternative to daily drops. Performed in-office with minimal downtime, laser procedures aim to improve the eye’s drainage system and reduce pressure buildup.
Two common types include:
- Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT): Used for open-angle glaucoma, SLT enhances fluid outflow with targeted energy, preserving surrounding tissue
- Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI): Often used for angle-closure glaucoma, this procedure creates a small opening in the iris to release trapped fluid
Laser treatment is typically painless and offers quick recovery. Some patients may reduce or eliminate their need for medication, while others use laser therapy alongside eye drops for added control. As with any treatment, there are considerations—results may wear off over time, and not all patients are candidates for laser procedures.
Effectiveness of Combination Therapies
For many patients, the most effective glaucoma treatment plan may involve a combination of therapies. Some begin with prescription eye drops and later incorporate laser procedures if intraocular pressure remains elevated. Others may undergo laser treatment for glaucoma as a first step, followed by targeted medication to maintain long-term pressure control.
At Everett & Hurite, your glaucoma specialist will carefully monitor how your eyes respond to treatment. We adjust your care plan as needed, ensuring the right balance of therapies to protect your optic nerve and preserve your vision over time.
Factors Influencing Treatment Selection
Glaucoma is a complex condition that affects each person differently. Choosing the most effective treatment depends on several individualised considerations, including:
- Type of glaucoma (such as open-angle, angle-closure, or congenital glaucoma)
- Extent of optic nerve damage and current vision status
- Patient age, lifestyle, and overall health
- Tolerance for medications and any relevant medical history
- Ability to consistently follow a daily eye drop regimen
In more advanced or complex cases, glaucoma surgery or minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) may be considered to create new drainage pathways or implant pressure-regulating devices. These decisions are made carefully with your eye care team to ensure long-term success.
Accessing Glaucoma Care in Southwestern PA
Whether you're newly diagnosed or exploring new treatment options for elevated eye pressure, Everett & Hurite offers experienced, personalized care across Pittsburgh and beyond.
Our board-certified ophthalmologists and glaucoma specialists provide:
- Comprehensive glaucoma evaluations
- Advanced imaging and diagnostics
- Medication and laser management
- Ongoing monitoring of the optic nerve and eye pressure
- Care tailored to your unique vision goals
We proudly serve patients at multiple locations, including Pittsburgh, Monroeville, Greensburg, Southpointe, Warrendale, Butler, and extend care to Steubenville, OH, and Weirton, WV.
Explore Personalized Glaucoma Care with Everett & Hurite
Understanding the differences between laser treatment and glaucoma medications is key to making informed choices about your eye health. No matter where you are in your treatment journey, Everett & Hurite is here to provide expert insight, thoughtful guidance, and advanced treatment tailored to your needs.
Call 412-288-0858 or request an appointment online to schedule a consultation at one of our Pittsburgh-area locations and explore your next steps in glaucoma care.
