Glaucoma Prevention and Treatments

Glaucoma Prevention

Even with regular exams from your eye doctor, there are some things you can do on your own to help prevent glaucoma from developing. The most effective method is simply being aware of the risk factors.

Anyone can be at risk for glaucoma, but certain people are more likely to develop the condition. These typically include people of certain ethnic backgrounds, ages, and medical histories, such as:

  • Advanced cataracts
  • African Americans above the age of 40, who are 6-8 times more likely to develop glaucoma
  • Asian, Hispanic, or Latino descent
  • Diabetes
  • Medications such as steroids
  • People above the age of 60
  • People with a family history of the disease
  • People with high levels of nearsightedness (myopia)
  • Previous severe eye injury, even if the injury occurred many years before

If you or a loved one falls into any of these groups, we strongly recommend regular eye exams. Your IALVS eye doctor will be better able to monitor your vision to check for the earliest signs of glaucoma.

Treatments for Glaucoma Disease

Treatment for glaucoma includes medication, surgery, or a combination of the two, although prevention is always #1. The goal of prescription medications and surgeries is to maintain a balanced level of intraocular pressure, slow down the development of the disease, and prevent any further loss of vision.

Your eye doctor first performs a comprehensive eye exam and based on your specific case, will create a treatment plan for your vision needs. Often, the doctor will advise you to administer prescription eye drops, which are shown to lower IOP levels. Certain kinds of medicated eye drops can result in some discomfort, but it’s important to be persistent. Treatment is crucial to keep your remaining vision and prevent it from deteriorating, so hang in there.

Sometimes, surgical procedures may be recommended. The intent of eye surgery is to improve natural fluid drainage from the eye, or to decrease the amount of fluid your eye produces. In some instances, your doctor may advise you to undergo surgery – combined with medication – to increase the chance of a successful outcome.

What Is the Latest Research on Glaucoma Disease?

IALVS doctors are always current and remain informed about new research and the latest cutting-edge technologies, which can help slow the progression of glaucoma. There are a number of techniques that show promise. These involve the use of tiny implants in the eye, which can drain excess fluid more easily, easing the high IOP which is the primary cause of glaucoma.

Since glaucoma is the leading cause of vision loss and blindness and its effects cannot be reversed, doctors and medical researchers are constantly looking into more effective methods of combating this disease. From new treatment options to clinical trials, from new technologies to better equipment and improved processes, we are always on the lookout for ways to alleviate the effects of glaucoma and provide long-term solutions.

One example of new research is something called Optic Nerve Regeneration. This is a method of regrowing nerve fibers that are responsible for sending visual signals to the brain, which are damaged in glaucoma patients. A number of studies and clinical trials are being done to understand the long-term effects of this treatment.

IALVS is at the center of new medical breakthroughs and scientific innovations. Our doctors are constantly seeking new avenues of treatment for the most effective results we can give our patients.

Can Glaucoma Go Away?

Glaucoma is an eye disease that gradually causes vision loss. While some forms of glaucoma are inherited, others are chronic. But no matter which type of glaucoma you or your loved one has, it, unfortunately, does not go away on its own.

Here’s the good news: we can control the progression of the disease so that it does not deteriorate further, while at the same time, enhancing and boosting your remaining vision for optimal clarity.

The goal of treatment with your IALVS eye doctor is to help you do the things you enjoy doing the most. So whether you love taking long drives, cooking delicious meals, watching TV, reading books, or spending time with family and friends, we give you the tools to help you manage your glaucoma and continue doing what you love.

Can You Go Blind from Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is the main cause of blindness in both the United States and Canada and the second leading cause of blindness worldwide. Unfortunately, by the time symptoms have been noticed and the patient has seen a doctor, significant damage to vision has already occurred. At this point, we want to prevent further vision loss, because the longer the disease is left untreated, the more serious it becomes, even leading to total blindness, which is irreversible. That’s why we encourage you to start glaucoma treatment as soon as possible.

IALVS doctors help with vision loss and we will use all the knowledge, experience, and tools at our disposal to provide you with top vision care. Let us help you regain your independence for a high quality of life – today.