As medical technology advances, many new and effective treatment methods are developed. Glaucoma is one example of a disease which can now be treated in ways that minimize stress and discomfort to the patient, and have positive and lasting results.
Glaucoma laser treatment has been highly recommended in recent years and is touted as one of the most innovative and successful methods for treating Glaucoma.
What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is the term used to designate a group of conditions that attack the optic nerve and lead to deterioration of an individual’s eyesight. People who develop glaucoma experience unsettling symptoms such as blurred vision, light halos and even severe headaches. It is such an uncomfortable and debilitating illness that it can adversely impact the overall quality of life for many of those who are affected.
It is one of the most predominant causes of blindness in those over the age of 60.
Luckily, there are options for treatment that can halt and even prevent the development of glaucoma.
Treating Glaucoma
If caught early, the chances of reducing the damage and therefore retaining as much sight as possible, are hugely increased. Today, glaucoma laser treatment is frequently recommended by many expert ophthalmologists. Laser treatment for glaucoma is also known as laser trabeculoplasty. It can be an effective and less stressful method of treatment for many patients, provided in the comfort of your ophthalmologist’s surgery.
Laser treatments for glaucoma are often quicker and have a shorter recovery time than conventional surgeries. It is best to consult your ophthalmologist for advice on the best method of treatment for every individual case of the illness.
How Does Glaucoma Laser Treatment Work?
Laser treatments for glaucoma function primarily by draining the eye of the fluids that build up in the optic nerve and cause damage. In the case of laser surgery, high-intensity light beams operate to create drainage areas within the eye and reduce the fluid that results from glaucoma. Eye surgeons who perform this specialized treatment are conscious of the patient’s comfort and use special numbing fluids on the eye.
Many patients are incredibly satisfied with this option because it can fit so readily into your routine, with minimum stress and trauma which is often caused by more invasive surgeries. Usually, glaucoma laser treatment can be carried out in under 30 minutes. It is also one of the least painful options, with many of those who experience it reporting there was little to no pain during the procedure.
Although this option may not be ideal for all patients and all forms of glaucoma, it can be an effective method of treatment, especially if pursued during the very early stages of glaucoma onset. If you are concerned about glaucoma and considering surgical options, it is always advisable to consult an ophthalmologist who can help you to assess all the treatments at your disposal.