Glaucoma, which usually shows no symptoms until after considerable harm is done, damages the optic nerve after a buildup of pressure within the eye. Annual screening tests are recommended for Caucasians beginning at age 50, and for African-Americans starting at 35. If detected in the early stages, glaucoma can be effectively treated to prevent loss of vision.

There are three types of laser surgery for glaucoma:

1. Trabeculoplasty uses a laser to place "spot welds" in the drainage area of the eye-- also known as the trabecular meshwork -- that allow the aqueous to drain more freely.
   
2. Iridotomy uses a laser to make a small hole in the iris-- the colored part of the eye -- which allows the aqueous to flow more freely within the eye so the iris doesn't plug up the trabecular meshwork.
   
3. Cyclophotocoagulation uses a laser beam to freeze selected areas of the ciliary body -- the part of the eye that produces aqueous humor -- to reduce the production of fluid.

Read more about glaucoma.

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