Glaucoma Care in Santa Monica

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, the connection between the eye and the brain. It is often associated with elevated pressure inside the eye, though it can occur at normal pressures too. Vision lost to glaucoma cannot be restored, which is why early detection matters so much.

The most common form, open-angle glaucoma, usually has no symptoms in its early stages. Side vision fades so gradually that many people do not notice until significant damage has occurred.

Angle-closure glaucoma is less common and can come on suddenly with severe eye pain, headache, nausea, redness, halos around lights and blurred vision. This is an emergency.

Anyone can develop glaucoma, but some people are at higher risk.

• A family history of glaucoma
• Age over 60
• African, Hispanic or Asian heritage
• High eye pressure
• High myopia or hyperopia
• Diabetes or high blood pressure
• Long-term steroid use
• A previous eye injury

Because early glaucoma is silent, regular comprehensive eye exams are essential, especially if you have risk factors. Seek care immediately for sudden eye pain with blurred vision or halos.

Our doctors are glaucoma-certified therapeutic optometrists. We measure eye pressure, evaluate and image the optic nerve, test your visual field, and track changes over time. Treatment often begins with prescription eye drops, and we coordinate with glaucoma specialists when laser or surgical care is needed. Learn more on our Eye Disease Management page.