Many of us assume that if something bad were happening to our eyes, we would know it.  Unlike many other conditions, glaucoma can sneak up on you without symptoms. Glaucoma treatment can control the condition and prevent more damage. Catching glaucoma early will limit its harm to the optic nerve and help your eyes stay healthy. 

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma occurs when the eyes cannot drain fluid, causing pressure to build up inside the front part of the eye. Your eyes constantly produce this fluid, but problems that prevent normal drainage can occur. The buildup of pressure inside the eye begins to damage the optic nerve. This bundle of nerve fibers carries messages from the eyes to the brain, and if enough optic nerve cells are injured, you can lose your vision. Fortunately, glaucoma treatment can prevent damage from progressing. 

What is the Best Glaucoma Treatment?

Glaucoma treatments vary widely, and Dr. Alabata will choose the best method for your needs. The best glaucoma treatment for you effectively controls your IOP (interocular pressure). The most common methods of glaucoma treatment include:

Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty

Selective laser trabeculoplasty uses cold laser energy to improve fluid drainage. By relieving the pressure, this procedure can slow or stop glaucoma progression. It requires little post-treatment care and can reduce your need for eye drops.

YAG Peripheral Iridotomy

YAG peripheral iridectomy is performed on those with closed-angle glaucoma. This rapidly progressing form of the condition is a medical emergency. After stabilizing the eye, Dr. Alabata uses this treatment to create a small open in the iris to drain excess fluid. 

Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery

Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery uses micro-devices implanted in the eye. These tiny devices can improve drainage or even reduce fluid production. This glaucoma treatment has a minimal recovery time and can effectively relieve pressure. 

Aqueous Tube Shunt

An aqueous tube shunt allows fluid to drain through a tiny tube in the eye. This shunt allows fluid to collect and drain through to the outside of the eye. If you have not responded to other treatment methods, this procedure may be right for you. 

Durysta

Many people with glaucoma use daily eye drops containing bimatoprost, a medication that reduces pressure in the eye. Durysta is a small implant that releases the medication into the eye. It makes a good option for those who want fewer eye drops. 

What Results Will I See After Glaucoma Treatment?

Glaucoma treatment reduces IOP to prevent damage to the optic nerve. However, it cannot repair existing nerve damage. Catching glaucoma early, before you notice nerve damage, can preserve your vision. If you have already developed vision problems due to nerve loss, this will not go away, but treatment can prevent it from worsening. Regular eye exams let you receive the best glaucoma treatment to keep your vision clear. 

Take the Next Step and Enjoy Better Vision

To schedule your in-person Glaucoma Consultation, call Alabata Eye Center at (850) 331-3937. A referral is not necessary. Thank you for trusting our professional services.