Receiving a glaucoma diagnosis can feel like stepping into unfamiliar territory. At first, there may be confusion, followed by a growing concern about what the future holds. Over time, questions begin to surface—Will I lose my vision? How will this affect my daily life? What can I do to stay ahead of it? As the condition progresses, it may affect your ability to drive, read comfortably, or even navigate everyday tasks with confidence. Understandably, this can lead to anxiety, frustration, and a sense of isolation.

In this blog, we’ll walk through what glaucoma is, how it progresses, which treatments can help, and how to take practical steps to protect your sight for the long term.

Understanding the Reality of Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a chronic eye condition that gradually damages the optic nerve, typically due to increased pressure inside the eye. One of the challenges of glaucoma is that it often progresses without noticeable symptoms until irreversible vision loss occurs.

As glaucoma advances, it can slowly narrow your field of vision, starting from the edges and moving inward. Narrowing can interfere with activities such as night driving, recognizing faces, and safely navigating unfamiliar places. Over time, the emotional toll can be significant, as individuals may begin to feel uncertain about their independence and future.

How Do You Stop Glaucoma from Progressing?

Fortunately, although glaucoma can be serious, it can often be managed successfully. The key to slowing its progression is to reduce intraocular pressure (IOP), which helps prevent further damage to the optic nerve.

There are several treatment options available, depending on the severity and type of glaucoma:

1. Prescription Eye Drops: These are typically the first line of treatment designed to lower eye pressure by either reducing fluid production or improving drainage.
2.  Oral Medications: If eye drops alone are insufficient, oral medications may be prescribed to enhance pressure control.
3. Laser Therapy: Procedures like Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) are minimally invasive methods that improve fluid outflow from the eye.
4. Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS): This type of surgery effectively reduces pressure and typically involves quicker recovery times.
5. Advanced Surgical Procedures: More complex surgical options may be necessary for more advanced or resistant cases of glaucoma.

By following appropriate treatment plans, many individuals can manage their glaucoma effectively and maintain their vision. When these treatments are customized and closely monitored, patients can often keep their vision and quality of life for years.

When to Seek Expert Care

Expert guidance is essential when navigating your glaucoma experience. Whether you’re just starting out or already midway through, having a trusted specialist by your side is crucial.

At Nova Eye Institute, patients receive personalized glaucoma treatment supported by advanced diagnostics and a comprehensive understanding of the disease. The practice is led by Dr. Nariman Nassiri, a board-certified glaucoma surgeon with elite training from UCLA’s Doheny and Stein Eye Institutes. He actively contributes to global eye care through the UCLA Mobile Eye Clinic and various international medical missions.

Dr. Nassiri combines technical expertise with compassion, ensuring that every patient is treated with care and respect. Whether you are newly diagnosed or exploring advanced treatment options, Nova Eye Institute provides the full spectrum of glaucoma care in Santa Clarita.

What Is the Life Expectancy of a Person with Glaucoma?

Here’s something reassuring: glaucoma does not affect your overall life expectancy. While the condition requires ongoing management, it doesn’t shorten your lifespan. The focus is on maintaining vision and quality of life through early treatment and consistent monitoring.

What Should Glaucoma Patients Avoid?

While treatment is essential, daily habits also play a role in managing glaucoma effectively. Patients should be mindful of a few things that can raise eye pressure or interfere with treatment:

• Missing medication doses, especially prescribed eye drops
• Heavy lifting or straining, which may temporarily increase pressure
• Smoking, which reduces blood flow to the optic nerve
• High caffeine intake, in some individuals
• Head-down postures (like in certain yoga poses) that may affect eye pressure

It’s also wise to consult your eye doctor before taking new over-the-counter medications like antihistamines or decongestants, which could impact your eyes.

Should I Be Worried If I Have Glaucoma?

It’s understandable to feel concerned, but with the right treatment and lifestyle adjustments, most people with glaucoma live full, active lives. Early diagnosis, consistent care, and regular eye exams make all the difference.

Rather than worry, focus on staying informed, keeping up with treatment, and surrounding yourself with a care team that supports you every step of the way.

You’re Not Alone in This!

At Nova Eye Institute, we know how overwhelming glaucoma can feel—but we also know how treatable it can be with the right care. Our mission is to preserve your vision and give you the tools and confidence to move forward.

If you’re ready to take control of your eye health, visit our Glaucoma Treatment page to learn more or schedule a consultation with Dr. Nariman Nassiri.

Your eyes are worth protecting—and we’re here to help you do just that.