Glaucoma, a chronic eye disease that damages the optic nerve, is the second leading cause of blindness worldwide and most often affects seniors age 60 and older. When the disease strikes, it starts at the edge of the visual field before progressing toward your central line of vision. And once vision is lost, it can never be recovered.
To protect your vision, it’s important to get regular eye exams from an eye specialist to detect early signs of glaucoma. And if you are diagnosed with the condition, to schedule a consultation with an ophthalmologist as soon as possible. Dr. E. Shanika Esparaz of Envision Wellness & Ophthalmology specializes in the medical treatment of glaucoma, using a combination of medication and laser therapy.
Glaucoma occurs when fluid builds up in the eye, putting pressure on the optic nerve. At first, glaucoma doesn’t have any symptoms, and once vision loss does begin, it progresses so slowly most people don’t realize the danger their eyesight is in. While an eye exam is your first line of defense against the disease, it’s important to talk with an eye specialist if you notice any of the following warning signs:
Because there are different types of glaucoma, Dr. Esparaz will determine the best plan of action based on diagnostic evaluations, your age and medical history, and how far the disease has progressed. Your custom care plan may include a combination of treatment options, including:
If glaucoma is in its early stages, prescription eye drops can slow the disease from making headway. Medication works in one of two ways – either helping drain fluid from your eye to lower eye pressure or decreasing the amount of fluid your eye produces.
is the first line treatment for closed-angle glaucoma, a more acute form of the disease. During your LPI procedure, Dr. Esparaz will create a hole in the outer edge of the iris to expose the trabecular meshwork, the spongy tissue near the cornea that allows fluid to flow from the eye, and widen the pathway to drain the eye.
Both laser treatments are outpatient procedures that take just minutes, and most patients experience little to no discomfort. Because they are performed in our office, you don’t have to worry about expensive insurance copays or pricey facility fees.
The team at Envision Ophthalmology & Wellness in Cleveland are experts in the treatment and ongoing monitoring of glaucoma and deliver personalized care with the compassion and respect you deserve. Contact us today to protect your vision for life.
