Your Partner in Glaucoma Care and Prevention
Glaucoma is a leading cause of vision loss worldwide, affecting over 3 million Americans. Often called the “silent thief of sight,” glaucoma can progress without noticeable symptoms until significant vision loss has occurred. Associated Eye Physicians & Surgeons of New Jersey‘s glaucoma specialists, Dr. Paige Hershkin and Dr. Matthew Hosler, provide personalized care across our four locations.
Glaucoma: What You Need to Know
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, which is responsible for transmitting visual signals from the eye to the brain. This damage often results from increased pressure within the eye. The most common form, open-angle glaucoma, occurs when the eye’s drainage channels become partially blocked, causing fluid to build up and raise eye pressure over time. This gradual increase in pressure can harm the optic nerve, leading to progressive vision loss.
Other types of glaucoma include angle-closure glaucoma, a less common but more urgent condition where the drainage angle suddenly becomes blocked, causing a rapid increase in eye pressure. This type requires immediate medical attention, as it can cause severe pain, nausea, and sudden vision loss.
How Glaucoma Affects What You See?
Glaucoma primarily affects peripheral vision, causing a gradual loss that often goes unnoticed until the disease has advanced. Common symptoms include:
Why Does Glaucoma Develop?
Certain factors may increase the risk of developing glaucoma, including:
Early Detection: The Key to Managing Glaucoma
Early detection of glaucoma is crucial for preventing irreversible damage to your vision. Routine eye exams are essential, particularly if you fall within a higher-risk category. During a comprehensive eye exam, we perform several tests to detect signs of glaucoma:
- Tonometry: Measures intraocular pressure to assess if it is within a normal range.
- Optic Nerve Imaging: Advanced imaging allows our specialists to examine the optic nerve for signs of damage.
- Visual Field Test: Assesses peripheral vision to detect any vision loss that may indicate glaucoma.
- Pachymetry: Measures corneal thickness, as thinner corneas are linked to increased glaucoma risk.
These tests provide a complete picture of your eye health and help our eye doctors identify glaucoma early, often before symptoms begin.
Glaucoma Specialists Across New Jersey
Dr. Paige Hershkin and Dr. Matthew Hosler specialize in glaucoma diagnosis and management. With extensive experience and a compassionate approach, they work closely with patients to create individualized treatment plans, including medication, laser therapy, or surgery. Our glaucoma services are available at all four of our locations—Jersey City, Rahway, Union, and Belleville—making it convenient for you to access expert care close to home.
Our practice emphasizes early detection and proactive management. From initial consultations and routine exams to advanced treatments, we support you on your journey to maintain clear, healthy vision.
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