Yes, it’s one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide.

Glaucoma Treatment

Q: Can glaucoma be cured?

Glaucoma cannot be cured, but treatment can control eye pressure and slow vision loss.

Q: What happens if glaucoma is untreated?

It can cause permanent vision loss. Regular exams in Essexville are critical.

Q: What treatments do you provide?

Drops, laser therapy, and MIGS depending on your needs.

Q: Can MiVision monitor glaucoma long term?

Yes, we use advanced tools to track progression and adjust care.

Q: Is laser treatment safe for glaucoma?

Yes — Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) is a safe, in-office procedure that can reduce eye pressure by improving fluid drainage. It’s a common first-line treatment for open-angle glaucoma and is covered by most insurance plans. SLT is quick, painless, and often helps patients reduce or eliminate the need for daily eye drops.

Q: How often should I be checked for glaucoma?

If you are over age 40, have diabetes, or have a family history of glaucoma, it’s recommended to have a comprehensive eye exam every 1–2 years. Patients already diagnosed with glaucoma may need more frequent monitoring depending on their individual treatment plan.

Q: Does MiVision treat glaucoma for patients outside Saginaw?

Absolutely. We proudly care for patients across Alpena County and neighboring Northern Michigan communities — including Hubbard Lake , Ossineke , Hillman , and Long Lake . Our goal is to make high-quality ophthalmic care accessible for Michigan families, no matter where they live.

in Alpena

Glaucoma Treatment

in Alpena

At MiVision Eye Care, we provide advanced glaucoma care for patients from Alpena and across Northern Michigan. Led by Dr. Melanie Mihlstin, a Michigan-trained ophthalmologist, our team combines leading diagnostic technology with compassionate, personalized treatment to help preserve your vision for life.

Looking for other eye services? Learn more about our Cataract Surgery, LASIK Vision Correction, Premium Lens Implants, and Diabetic Eye Exams.

What is a Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of preventable blindness in the United States. It damages the optic nerve—usually from increased pressure inside the eye—and can cause gradual, permanent vision loss if left untreated.

Because glaucoma often develops without noticeable symptoms, regular eye exams are critical for early detection and lifelong eye health.

Symptoms to Watch For

Loss of side vision
Blurred or hazy spots
Halos around lights
Eye pressure

Advanced Diagnostic Technology

At MiVision, we use the same state-of-the-art technology found in major eye centers, including:

Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): to capture high-resolution images of the optic nerve and retinal nerve fiber layer.
Visual Field Testing: to track subtle changes in your peripheral vision.
Tonometry: to measure intraocular pressure safely and accurately.

These tools allow Dr. Mihlstin to detect glaucoma early—even before symptoms appear—and to personalize your treatment plan

Glaucoma Treatment Options

Our goal is to lower intraocular pressure and protect your optic nerve from further damage. Depending on your diagnosis, treatment may include:

Prescription Eye Drops to manage pressure effectively.
Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) — a quick, in-office laser that improves fluid drainage.
Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS): often performed alongside cataract surgery for long-term control.

At MiVision, we believe in early intervention and close monitoring to help you maintain clear, comfortable vision.

Serving Alpena and Northern Michigan

Patients from Alpena, Hubbard Lake, Ossineke, and Long Lake trust MiVision Eye Care for thorough glaucoma management and Michigan-based expertise.

Whether you live near the Thunder Bay River or along US-23, our Saginaw office is an easy drive for specialized ophthalmic care.

Directions from Alpena to MiVision Eye Care:

Take US-23 South toward Oscoda.
Merge onto I-75 South toward Saginaw.
Exit 149B for M-46 West toward Saginaw.
Follow M-46 to MiVision Eye Care, conveniently located near Bay and Midland Roads.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can glaucoma be cured?

Is glaucoma common?

What happens if glaucoma is untreated?

What treatments do you provide?

Can MiVision monitor glaucoma long term?

Is laser treatment safe for glaucoma?

How often should I be checked for glaucoma?

Does MiVision treat glaucoma for patients outside Saginaw?

Schedule Today

Protect Your Vision!

If you live in Alpena, MI, and are concerned about glaucoma, call 989-321-2655 or request an appointment online. Protect your sight with expert glaucoma care close to home.

Schedule Today