Treatments for Conditions of the Eye

Glaucoma Treatment

More than 2 million Americans are believed to have some type of glaucoma – and half of them do not know it. People in the early stages of the disease rarely notice any symptoms, so it's vitally important to be tested for glaucoma regularly, beginning at about age 35.

 

Ninety percent of glaucoma patients have open-angle glaucoma. Although this condition cannot be cured, it can usually be controlled. Early treatment may also minimize vision loss. To control glaucoma, our doctors may prescribe medicine or laser surgery, known as Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT), to lower the pressure in the eye.

 

Near-Angle Glaucoma		Open-Angle Glaucoma

	Background diabetic retinopathy is an early sign of damage to the retina at the back of the eye, where blood vessels begin to weaken and leak. The leakage causes accumulations of yellowish proteins and fatty substances.

Diabetes (Diabetic Retinopathy)

Diabetes is a disease that affects blood vessels throughout the body, particularly vessels in the kidneys and eyes. Diabetic retinopathy results when the blood vessels in the eyes grow scar tissue and leak fluid or blood, impairing the retina's ability to detect and transmit images.

 

During the early stages of diabetic retinopathy, vision is typically not affected. However, when retinopathy becomes advanced, vision tends to become hazy and occasionally results in a complete loss of vision. Diabetes can also lead to glaucoma and cataracts. In addition, diabetes can trigger retinal detachment, which can result in blindness if left untreated.

 

Regular eye exams are crucial in preventing and treating diabetic retinopathy.

Dry Eyes

Dry eyes occur when your eye is not producing enough lubricating tears.As we get older, glands in the eyelidproduce less oil, which allows tears toevaporate too quickly, leaving the eye too dry. Symptoms can include everything from itching and burning to blurry vision. Excessive watering can even be a symptom!

 

The doctors at Genstler Eye Center can check for dry eye and prescribe a range of treatments to give you more comfortable vision.

Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration affects cells in the macula – the part of the retina responsible for central vision – which impairs your ability to read, drive and recognize people. Although macular degeneration leaves peripheral vision unaffected, the disease can be quite debilitating in its advanced stage.

 

The primary cause of macular degeneration is not known. Age Related Macular Degeneration, often called AMD or ARMD, is the leading cause of vision loss and blindness among Americans who are 65 and older.

 

There is no cure for macular degeneration yet. However, there are some treatments that delay the progression and possibly even improve vision. The doctors at Genstler Eye Center can provide testing and examinations to monitor and treat the disease.

 

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