Glaucoma is a serious condition of the eyes that, in the early stages, often has no symptoms. This makes it difficult to catch early, which is absolutely essential to get the best end result. For glaucoma treatment in Clearwater, FL, Dr. Kyle Linsey and Dr. Tanya Perich of Clearwater Eye and Laser Center offer the treatments you need to protect your eyesight. 

What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is an eye condition that causes damage that is irreversible to the optic nerve. The damage is caused by pressure that results from fluid not draining correctly from the eye. It causes more blindness in people over the age of sixty than any other condition. It needs to receive glaucoma treatment in Clearwater, FL as early as possible to minimize the amount of damage and loss of vision. 

Types of Glaucoma

There are two main types of glaucoma; open angle glaucoma and closed angle glaucoma. In cases of open angle glaucoma, which is the most common type, the fluid that is produced in the eye is not able to drain at the proper rate. This build up of fluid causes the pressure to rise in the eye and this is what causes the damage to the optic nerve. 

In closed angle glaucoma, the iris is located too close to the drainage angle in the eye, and it can block the drainage of fluid. When this blockage happens quickly, the complete blockage causes the pressure to rise very quickly and causes acute danger. Blindness can result very quickly. Getting in touch with your eye doctor immediately is essential. 

Treatment for Glaucoma

The main treatment for glaucoma is eye drops. These can either reduce the pressure in the eye or they can make the fluid drain quicker. Glaucoma may also be treated with laser surgery. There are two different types of laser surgery, one that works best for each type of glaucoma. In the open angle type of glaucoma, it creates a better angle to allow better drainage. In closed angle glaucoma, a tiny hole is created in the iris to allow drainage. 

Other types of surgery are possible. In one type, a new drainage channel is created and in another a drainage tube may be inserted. For some people, having cataract surgery to remove the old lens lowers the pressure in the eye. One thing is essential,  the pressure needs to be reduced. 

Contact Us for More Information

It is important if you suspect glaucoma that you get glaucoma treatment in Clearwater, FL, as quickly as possible. Dr. Linsey and Dr. Perich of Clearwater Eye and Laser Center can help to make sure you get the correct diagnosis and treatment. Call the office at (727) 446-7578 to schedule an appointment.