Before we can address any of the contemporary glaucoma treatment options, it’s important to understand the nature of the two most prominent variants of this condition, especially when taking into account the fact that over 50% of glaucoma patients aren’t able to describe their own conditions.
- Primary Open-Angle: As the most common type of glaucoma, the primary open-angle manifestation occurs when the eye does not drain fluid as well as it should, sort of similar to a clogged drain. If your optic nerves are sensitive to any fluctuations in pressure, you’ll have a heightened risk of contracting this type of glaucoma.
- Angle-Closure: If your iris happens to be situated too close to your eye’s internal drainage site, it can eventually begin blocking the drainage angle and cause eye pressure to rise very quickly. This is commonly referred to as angle-closure glaucoma and it is far less common than the above-mentioned iteration.
The Cold, Hard Facts
If you’ve been weighing the pros and cons of scheduling a glaucoma treatment in Honolulu, for instance, it’s worth mentioning that you’re not alone:
- Over three million Americans have glaucoma but more than half of these individuals aren’t aware of it.
- 9%-12% of all documented cases of blindness are directly linked to glaucoma.
- After cataracts, glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness in the entire world.
- Glaucoma conditions cost our nation approximately $1.5 billion each year.
- Receiving proper treatment is the only way to alleviate the detriments of this chronic condition.
How to Find Relief
If you schedule an appointment with a renowned local eye care center such as the Hawaii Vision Clinic, for instance, you’ll be able to work hand in hand with a licensed, highly trained practitioner to select the ideal glaucoma treatment to account for your unique condition. Shown below are the two most effective procedures available nowadays:
- Endocyclophotocoagulation (ECL): This particular glaucoma treatment focuses on reducing the production of eye fluid by augmenting the internal ciliary body, which effectively decreases the buildup of liquid and reduces eye pressure.
- Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT): The SLT procedure uses a laser system to target the trabecular meshwork in your eye and improve the outflow of fluid, which naturally lowers your eye pressure without impacting any surrounding tissues.
Both of these treatment options are reimbursed by Medicare and other insurance providers, so it makes personal and financial sense to schedule a consultation as soon as possible.
