Experience expert care and personalized solutions for glaucoma at Brimhall Eye. Our dedicated team of ophthalmologists and advanced diagnostic technologies provide comprehensive evaluations, precise treatments, and ongoing management to help preserve your vision.
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Glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness in the US in people over 60 years old.
It is a condition that subtly damages the optic nerve, which is the nerve that transmits images to the brain. Once the nerve is fully damaged, the eye can no longer see. This damage first causes blind spots to develop. These blind spots usually go undetected until more severe damage has occurred.
The best way to determine if you have glaucoma is by getting a dilated eye exam from a skilled professional.
We do not clearly understand the cause of glaucoma. High eye pressure is a risk factor but is not the root cause. In fact, some people with glaucoma have low pressures. Several theories exist on the cause, including problems with the blood supply to the nerve, inherent weakness of the nerve, and programmed cell death (called apoptosis).
The older a person is, the more likely glaucoma is to occur. Race also plays a role. African Americans and Hispanics are also at an increased risk. Family history matters. Those with a parent or sibling with glaucoma are at higher risk. Other risk factors include diabetes and previous significant injuries to an eye.
Current guidelines recommend that you should be screened by an ophthalmologist routinely if any of the following apply to you:
Symptoms
Glaucoma is known as the “silent thief of vision.” Most people with glaucoma don’t have any symptoms for the first 95% of the disease process. In fact, it is believed that there are about 1.4 million people in the US who have glaucoma but are completely unaware. Once someone notices their vision has changed, the glaucoma is usually very advanced and can be difficult to treat. Early detection and treatment is by far the best way to prevent vision loss from glaucoma. Make an appointment to get screened today.
Treatment
Early diagnosis and treatment is key to having the best outcome. Glaucoma treatments are focused on lowering and stabilizing eye pressure. There have recently been several new advances in treatment. These include:
Sometimes a combination of these treatments is required.
Advanced Technology and Unparalleled Care
Experience the synergy of cutting-edge technology and unparalleled care at our practice. We are committed to delivering the highest standard of glaucoma treatment by harnessing the power of advanced technologies, personalized approaches, and a compassionate team of experts.
Welcome to our comprehensive FAQ section dedicated to glaucoma. Here, we provide answers to common questions about various treatment options for glaucoma, including micro-invasive glaucoma surgeries (MIGS), prescription eye drops, and traditional glaucoma surgeries. Whether you’re seeking to understand the benefits of different procedures, explore alternatives to eye drops, or learn about the indications for traditional glaucoma surgeries, we’ve got you covered.
Yes, SLT laser is widely recognized and used as a first-line treatment for glaucoma worldwide. This FDA-approved procedure is covered by insurance and has a long-standing track record of safety and success. By gently stimulating the drainage structures of the eye, SLT helps lower intraocular pressure, a key factor in managing glaucoma. The treatment itself is quick, typically taking about three minutes to perform in the clinic. Most importantly, it is a painless procedure. The results of SLT can last for two to five years, and if necessary, retreatment can be done to maintain the desired eye pressure reduction.
Yes, prescription eye drops can be an effective way to treat glaucoma. These drops are specifically formulated to help lower intraocular pressure and slow down the progression of the disease. However, it is crucial to follow your doctor’s instructions and administer the drops daily to achieve optimal results.
Consistency is key in managing glaucoma with eye drops. It’s important to remember to use them as prescribed to ensure their effectiveness in preventing the condition from worsening. If your doctor has prescribed multiple glaucoma medications, be sure to space them apart by at least 3 minutes during administration. This interval allows each drop to be absorbed properly without washing out the previous one.
Micro-invasive glaucoma surgeries (MIGS) are advanced procedures that offer effective and significantly safer alternatives to traditional glaucoma surgery. These FDA-approved surgeries are covered by insurance and have revolutionized the treatment of glaucoma. MIGS procedures are typically quick, taking about 5 minutes or less to perform, and can be done alongside cataract surgery or as standalone procedures.
At our practice, our skilled surgeons are trained in various types of MIGS procedures and can recommend the most suitable option for your specific condition. Some of the commonly performed MIGS procedures include iStent Inject®, Kahook Dual Blade®, and the OMNI Procedure®.
Traditional glaucoma surgeries are typically reserved for advanced or severe cases of glaucoma, as well as specific rare forms of the condition. While other treatment options, such as medications and minimally invasive procedures, are often the first line of defense, traditional glaucoma surgeries may be recommended when other methods have proven ineffective or insufficient in managing the disease.
The decision to undergo traditional glaucoma surgery is made on a case-by-case basis, considering various factors including the severity of the glaucoma, the individual’s overall eye health, and the presence of any other eye conditions or considerations. Your surgeon will carefully evaluate your specific situation and recommend the most appropriate course of action.
Consultation
Don’t let glaucoma compromise your vision and quality of life. Our expert team is here to provide you with comprehensive glaucoma treatment tailored to your unique needs. From advanced diagnostics to innovative therapies and ongoing care, we are dedicated to preserving your sight and enhancing your well-being.
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