Dec 12
How is Glaucoma Treated?
Your eyes are one of the most vital parts of your body. They connect you to the world around you, help you experience life’s beauty, and play a crucial role in day-to-day activities. But like any part of the body, they need care and attention to stay healthy. One condition that requires particular vigilance is glaucoma, often referred to as the “silent thief of sight.” At Trumansburg Optical, we emphasize the importance of routine eye exams to detect glaucoma early—before it threatens your vision. Below, we’ll explore various treatment options available for this condition.
Understanding Glaucoma Treatment Options
When it comes to managing glaucoma, the primary goal is to lower the pressure in your eye (intraocular pressure) to prevent further damage to the optic nerve. Depending on the severity of the condition, treatment plans may include prescription medications, laser therapy or surgical procedures. A thorough eye exam by a trusted optometrist, like those offered at Trumansburg Optical, is the first step in determining the right approach for you.
1. Prescription Eye Drops
Prescription eye drops are often the first line of defense in treating glaucoma. These medications work in one of two ways—either by reducing the amount of fluid your eye produces or by improving the drainage of fluid from the eye. Types of glaucoma drops include:
- Prostaglandins like latanoprost (Xalatan) or bimatoprost (Lumigan), which increase fluid drainage.
- Beta blockers such as timolol (Timoptic), which reduce fluid production.
- Alpha-adrenergic agonists like brimonidine (Alphagan), which both decrease fluid production and improve outflow.
It’s essential to use the eye drops exactly as prescribed by your doctor to achieve the best results and minimize side effects.
2. Oral Medications
Sometimes, eye drops alone are not sufficient to control intraocular pressure. If this is the case, your eye doctor might prescribe oral medication, typically a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor. These pills help decrease eye pressure but may come with side effects. We’ll work closely with you to ensure any additional medication fits into your treatment plan with minimal disruptions to your daily life.
3. Laser Therapy
For patients who do not respond well to or cannot tolerate medications, laser therapy may be an effective option. This procedure, known as laser trabeculoplasty, helps improve fluid drainage from the eye. It’s quick, relatively painless and performed in your eye doctor’s office. While the effects may take a few weeks to show, laser therapy can be a valuable alternative or complement to medication for managing glaucoma.
4. Surgical Interventions
When medications and laser therapy are not sufficient to control intraocular pressure, surgical procedures may be required. Common surgical options include:
- Trabeculectomy – A procedure that creates a new drainage pathway for eye fluid.
- Drainage tube implants – Small devices placed in the eye to facilitate fluid drainage.
- Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) – A less invasive option often performed alongside cataract surgery.
Taking Charge of Your Eye Health
While the damage caused by glaucoma cannot be reversed, early detection and consistent treatment can slow its progression and protect your vision. That’s why regular eye exams are your strongest ally in the fight against glaucoma. At Trumansburg Optical, we offer comprehensive eye exams using advanced diagnostic technology to catch early signs of glaucoma before symptoms appear. With personalized care and ongoing support, we aim to be your partner in eye health.
Contact us today to schedule your appointment. Together, we’ll ensure your eyes stay as healthy and clear as possible for years to come.
