There are many types of glaucoma, and the appropriate treatment varies for each patient depending on many factors.
How do I know if I have glaucoma?
Unfortunately, glaucoma doesn’t have any symptoms, like having high blood pressure. That is why glaucoma is sometimes called the “silent thief of sight.” The only way to catch glaucoma before having permanent vision loss is with regular eye exams.
How is glaucoma diagnosed?
Glaucoma diagnosis requires special testing. During your regular exam, we look to see if you have any signs of glaucoma. If so, you return for the special testing at another visit. The testing takes 10-15 minutes and is not painful or invasive.
How is glaucoma treated?
The goal of glaucoma treatment is to lower eye pressure. Eye pressure can be lowered with eye drops, light therapy (SLT), surgery, or a combination of treatments. We will work with you to determine the most appropriate treatment.
Our office has the latest in SLT technology. If you need drops or light therapy to treat your glaucoma, we can take care of you in our office. If you need surgery, we work with the best local surgeons.
What is SLT and how does it work?
Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) is a safe and effective laser procedure used to lower intraocular pressure associated with glaucoma. SLT works by delivering short pulses of low-energy light to target melanin in specific cells of the affected eye. This process helps to heal and rebuild the cells, improving drainage and reducing intraocular pressure. The procedure is painless and takes no more than five minutes in a doctor's office. Drops are used to numb the eye and anti-inflammatory drops may be used after treatment.
Generally, intraocular pressure drops significantly within one to three days. SLT can be repeated if necessary, and is suitable for those with primary open-angle, pseudoexfoliation, pigmentary, or juvenile glaucoma, as well as those who are intolerant of glaucoma medications. SLT is also a good option for those with a history of failed ALT treatments, or who are unable to commit to regular follow-up treatments. While SLT lowers intraocular pressure an average of 25 percent in 75 to 85 percent of patients, other treatments, including traditional drug therapy, are available if SLT does not work.
Dry Eye Treatment Forms
To save time on your dry eye visit, please fill out and print or email the following forms before you come in. Forms can be emailed to info@carbonvalleyeyecare.com.
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