Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve. It is the one of the most common causes of blindness in people over 60 years old. It is typically caused by excess fluid in the front of the eye that increases pressure inside the eye. The pressure is what damages the optic nerve. There are two main types of glaucoma that are called open-angle glaucoma and angle-closure glaucoma. At Memphis Eye & Cataract Associates in Memphis, TN, our ophthalmologist treats both types of glaucoma. We offer several treatment options to manage the condition and lower eye pressure.
Medical Options
When it comes to glaucoma treatment, several medications are available. Medications are designed to reduce intraocular pressure, thus reducing the risk of damage to the optic nerve. Eye drops are one way to introduce the medication. There are five different classes of drugs that are used to treat glaucoma:
- prostaglandin analogs
- beta-blockers
- alpha agonists
- carbonic anhydrase inhibitors
- rho kinase inhibitors
Our ophthalmologist may use different combinations to come up with the one that works on your particular case of glaucoma. Combination drugs are available. All medication comes with some side effects, and how much you are affected may determine the choices made for you as well as how well you respond. When medication is not lowering the pressure enough, surgery is the next option.
Surgical Options
There are several surgical options available for glaucoma treatment. Our ophthalmologist will make a recommendation for which type of surgery will be best for you depending on the type of glaucoma you have and the seriousness of your condition. Laser surgery is usually the preferred option, unless the pressure is excessively high or the optic nerve is badly damaged. The laser treats the eye’s drainage system and allows the fluid in the eye to drain.
With incision surgery, a new drainage hole is created bypassing the damaged drainage system. Our eye surgeon may use this if laser surgery doesn’t give the desired results.
Visit Our Memphis, TN Ophthalmologist for Glaucoma Treatment
If you are suffering from glaucoma, we can help. At Memphis Eye & Cataract Associates in Memphis, TN, our eye surgeon provides medications and surgeries to treat glaucoma and preserve your vision. Call us today to schedule an appointment.