Glaucoma Treatment
Early detection and treatment of glaucoma are essential to preventing vision loss.
While some cases of glaucoma can be controlled with medication, more advanced cases may require surgery.
What treatments are available to protect my vision?
Prevent Vision Loss with Effective Glaucoma Treatment
Non-Invasive Treatments
Conservative treatments such as eye drops and oral medications can be used in the early stages of glaucoma to control the amount of fluid in the eye and improve the outward flow.
Laser Surgery
For intermediate cases, a laser can be used to improve a drainage route or create a new one.
Surgical Procedures for Severe Cases
Surgery can alleviate severe drainage issues by manually creating a new path or placing an implant.
Modern Medicine Can Protect Your Vision
The Cost of Surgery and Meds
The national average cost of laser eye surgery starts around $1,300. It is estimated that medication can cost up to $1,750 per year. On average, incisional surgery costs between $7,300 to $11,300. Most major health insurance providers will contribute to at least part of your expenses related to glaucoma treatment.
Is There a Cure for Glaucoma?
There is no known cure for glaucoma, and any resulting vision loss and other damage cannot be reversed. Treatment is intended to control the condition and maintain a healthy intraocular pressure. Even after surgery, you may still need to take medication regularly to prevent vision loss.
Although glaucoma cannot be cured, remember: many patients manage their conditions effectively and live full, healthy lives.
Determining if Invasive Treatment Is Necessary
Severity of Glaucoma:
Surgery is typically recommended for patients with moderate to severe glaucoma.
Overall Health:
Patients should be in overall good physical health before undergoing surgery.
Ability to Cope with Side Effects of Medication:
Medications affect everyone differently and may impose significant side effects that can be unsustainable for some patients. For the right patients, surgery may be a better solution.
Your doctor will evaluate your candidacy to determine which method of glaucoma treatment will best suit you.
Maintaining Your Vision for a Lifetime
Unfortunately, there is no guaranteed way to prevent glaucoma. Instead, your best bet is to catch it as early as possible in order to minimize vision loss. This requires undergoing regular eye exams on a schedule recommended by your doctor.
In order to maintain your vision once you have been diagnosed, it is essential that you take your prescribed medication daily and ensure that your prescription is filled regularly. Certain lifestyle changes can help you maintain your vision, as well, including keeping a healthy diet, exercising regularly, reducing your caffeine levels, staying hydrated, and sleeping with an elevated head.
Effective Management of Glaucoma Is Possible with the Right Treatment
Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness. If you are experiencing glaucoma symptoms or have neglected to undergo regular eye exams, contact your doctor to schedule an evaluation. Timely treatment can help control your condition and prevent vision loss.
