WHAT IS GLAUCOMA?

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Glaucoma is a complex disease in which damage to the optic nerve leads to progressive, irreversible vision loss. Intraocular pressure within the eye is often associated with glaucoma as a symptom or warning sign for your doctor to do further testing. Glaucoma typically affects those aged over 40, but can occur at any age. If glaucoma progresses, permanent vision loss can occur – however early detection can prevent or reduce such vision loss in most patients.

WHAT ARE MY TREATMENT OPTIONS?

EyeCare Associates of South Tulsa employs the latest techniques and equipment to detect and treat glaucoma at any stage.

Available treatments include:

Eye Drops

Eye drops are used in managing glaucoma to decrease eye pressure by helping the eye’s fluid to drain better and/or decreasing the amount of fluid made by the eye.

SLT Laser

SLT laser alone can reduce your eye pressure without the need for daily eye drops. It also has the advantage of being able to be redone when the effect wears off. This is an in-office procedure.

MIG Device

A MIG device is a small implant that allows for better fluid drainage that will reduce your pressure. This is usually inserted at the time of cataract surgery, but can also be done as a stand-alone procedure in some cases. This is performed at the surgery center.

ONCE THE TREATMENT IS COMPLETE

The outlook for glaucoma depends largely on the type of glaucoma you have, but generally: • It often results in some degree of permanent vision loss, although most people retain useful vision.

• It may hinder your ability to do certain tasks, such as driving.
• Only a small percentage of people will end up totally blind.
• Early detection and treatment is key in preventing future vision loss.

These statistics are why it’s so important to have your eyes tested regularly and to make sure you follow your recommended treatment plan.