Glaucoma Care at ReFocus Eye Health Penndel
What You Need to Know About Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a chronic eye disease that gradually damages the optic nerve, most often from high pressure inside the eye. Early detection and care are key to slowing the disease and maintaining your independence.
This condition usually happens when the fluid inside the eye cannot drain as it should, causing pressure that harms the optic nerve. Sometimes, glaucoma develops even when eye pressure is not very high, often because of lowered blood flow to the nerve.
There are several types of glaucoma. Understanding which type you have helps your doctor choose the best treatment plan for you.
- Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma – The most common form, which develops slowly as the eye’s drainage system becomes clogged.
- Angle-Closure Glaucoma – A less common urgent condition caused by a sudden blockage in drainage canals, requiring immediate attention.
- Normal-Tension Glaucoma – Damage occurs despite having normal eye pressure, often linked to poor blood flow.
- Secondary Glaucoma – Results from another cause, such as injury, inflammation, or advanced cataract.
- Congenital Glaucoma – Appears at birth or in early childhood and needs specialized care.
Glaucoma can develop slowly and may not cause obvious symptoms at first. As it progresses, you may notice:
- Gradually reduced side vision (peripheral vision)
- Blurred or cloudy vision
- Seeing halos around lights
- Eye pain, redness, or nausea, especially with angle-closure glaucoma
Certain people are more likely to develop glaucoma, including those over 60, people who have family members with glaucoma, and patients from African American or Hispanic backgrounds. Conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure can also increase your risk.
How ReFocus Eye Health Penndel Helps You Manage Glaucoma
Regular eye exams are vital for managing glaucoma, and our team uses the latest tests and technology to closely monitor your eyes. We serve Penndel and nearby communities including Levittown, Bensalem, and Bristol, as a trusted resource in the Greater Philadelphia Metropolitan Area.
Our ophthalmologists use painless, advanced tests to check your eye pressure and the health of your optic nerve. These include:
- Tonometry – Measures eye pressure
- Visual field testing – Checks your side vision for blind spots
- Optical coherence tomography (OCT) – Makes detailed images of the optic nerve and retina
- Gonioscopy – Examines the drainage angle inside your eye
Treating glaucoma focuses on lowering the pressure inside your eye to protect your vision. At ReFocus Eye Health Penndel, we offer:
- Prescription eye drops to reduce eye pressure
- Laser therapy such as Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT)
- Surgical procedures like trabeculectomy or minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries (MIGS) for advanced cases
Every patient receives an individualized treatment plan, and our team explains your options so you feel confident in your care. Our doctors use modern technology and evidence-based treatments to manage your glaucoma effectively.
Healthy Habits and Lifestyle Choices
Caring for glaucoma goes beyond medical treatment. Making healthy changes in your life can help keep your eyes healthy and support your vision long-term.
Activities like walking, swimming, and cycling that raise your heart rate gently are good for your eyes and general health. Try to avoid exercise that involves hanging your head down for long periods or heavy weightlifting, which may lead to higher eye pressure.
How you sleep can make a difference. Resting with your head raised slightly may help keep your eye pressure stable overnight. Many patients use a wedge pillow to support healthy sleep posture.
A balanced diet supports optic nerve health. Focus on:
- Eating leafy greens such as spinach and kale
- Adding fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins C, E, and A
- Choosing foods with omega-3 fatty acids like salmon, flaxseed, and walnuts
- Drinking water steadily throughout the day
Living With Glaucoma: Practical Advice
Adjusting your daily life can make it easier to manage glaucoma. Simple changes at home and in your routine help keep you safe and independent.
Small changes can reduce the risk of falls or injuries. Suggestions include:
- Removing loose rugs and clutter from walkways
- Using non-slip mats in the bathroom and kitchen
Bright, even lighting throughout your home helps you see more clearly and lowers the risk of accidents. Consider adjustable blinds to control glare and keep rooms well-lit.
Many tools are available to help with everyday tasks, such as:
- Handheld magnifiers for reading
- Electronic magnifiers or large-font devices
- High-contrast tape for marking stair edges or switches
Sticking to your glaucoma eye drop schedule is important. Reminders like alarms, charts, or smartphone apps can help you remember to take your medicine on time.
Emotional Well-Being and Support
Having glaucoma can affect your feelings and confidence. Emotional support is an important part of caring for your health and quality of life.
It is normal to feel anxious, frustrated, or sometimes sad about vision changes, but you do not have to manage these feelings alone.
Reach out to family, join glaucoma support groups, or talk to a counselor if you need help. Support is available both locally and online, and connecting with others can make daily challenges easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some common questions we hear about glaucoma care and management at ReFocus Eye Health Penndel.
Most changes happen slowly and may not be obvious. Regular eye exams are the best way to track progression through visual field tests and optic nerve scans.
If you remember soon after, take it right away. If it’s close to your next dose, skip the missed drop and continue your usual schedule. Do not double up your medications.
Yes, glaucoma can run in families. Close relatives aged 40 and older should have regular, comprehensive eye exams to check for early signs of the disease.
Some medicines, especially those with steroids or specific decongestants, may affect your eye pressure. Always share a list of all your medications and supplements, including over-the-counter ones, with your eye doctor.
Most people with well-controlled glaucoma can travel and fly safely. If you have severe or unstable glaucoma, talk to your doctor before your trip and always carry your medications with you.
Call for emergency care if you notice sudden, severe eye pain, headache with nausea, an abrupt loss of vision, or halos around lights. These may be signs of an acute glaucoma attack and require rapid treatment.
Connect With ReFocus Eye Health Penndel
Managing glaucoma is possible with expert guidance, the latest technology, and a team that cares about your vision. Whether you live in Penndel, a nearby community, or anywhere in the Greater Philadelphia Metropolitan Area, we are here to help you protect your eyesight and your independence for years to come.
Dr. Soll caring, thorough ophthalmologist. Assistant Brooke kind, makes you comfortable. Dionne friendly receptionist, makes you welcome.
Darlene Squire
Doctor and staff professional, knowledgeable, caring. Always a pleasure to visit Refocus!
Julia Lavdas
Dr. Amin performed cataract surgery on both my eyes. It was a wonderful experience for me. The entire staff that I met at Refocus Eye were the best.
George Ruoss
Had cataract surgery April, Premium Vivity lenses. Now need glasses for reading and distance. See doctor in months, hopefully vision improves.
Christopher Powell
Staff was friendly. Dr. Soll is very friendly and knowledgeable. Recommend this office.
Carol Scott
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