Courtesy of Eye Care Vision Associates
Glaucoma affects millions of individuals globally. The World Glaucoma Association estimates roughly 112 million people are likely to have glaucoma by 2040, an increase of 30 million in just 20 years. Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that can cause vision loss and blindness, for which there is no cure. However, the physicians at Eye Care Vision Associates note that there are treatment options for glaucoma.
Medicine
Prescription eye drops are the most common treatment for glaucoma, and reduce the pressure in the eye to prevent damage to the optic nerve in the back of the eye. While not a cure, using eye drops daily can help keep glaucoma from getting worse. Since eye drops are typically used as long as they’re proving effective, they are a long-term treatment plan.
Laser treatment
Doctors may use a simple in-office laser treatment to drain fluid from the eye. Most patients receiving laser treatment for glaucoma feel little or no pain or discomfort, but might see flashes of bright green or red light during treatment. Most patients can also return to normal daily activities the day after laser treatment. However, laser treatment may need to be repeated more than once, as its effects can wear off over time.
Surgery
Various surgeries considered to treat glaucoma are typically recommended after medicine and laser treatment are no longer effective. The surgery aims to lower pressure in the eye. Patients will be prescribed eye drops for several weeks after surgery. Thereafter, routine checkups are required to gauge healing, and heavy lifting should be avoided for a few weeks after surgery.
Learn more about Eye Care Vision Associates at www.ecvaeyecare.com.
