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Glaucoma

Glaucoma

At Sierra Eye Group, glaucoma treatment is a priority. Our advanced diagnostic tools catch glaucoma early, minimizing vision loss risks. With personalized treatment plans, including medical management and surgical interventions, we prioritize preserving your vision and enhancing your quality of life. Trust us to safeguard your vision and well-being with compassionate, expert care.

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What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, often due to increased pressure within the eye. This damage can lead to vision loss and even blindness if left untreated. At Sierra Eye Group, we are committed to educating our patients about glaucoma and providing effective management strategies to preserve vision and maintain eye health.

Types of Glaucoma:

There are several types of glaucoma, including:

  • Open-angle glaucoma: The most common form, characterized by gradual vision loss.
  • Angle-closure glaucoma: Caused by a sudden blockage of fluid drainage from the eye, resulting in a rapid increase in eye pressure.
  • Normal-tension glaucoma: Occurs when optic nerve damage happens despite normal eye pressure levels.
  • Secondary glaucoma: Arises as a result of another eye condition or medical issue, such as trauma, inflammation, or certain medications.

Symptoms of Glaucoma:

Glaucoma often progresses silently, with no noticeable symptoms until vision loss has occurred. However, some signs to watch for include:

  • Patchy blind spots in peripheral or central vision
  • Tunnel vision in advanced stages
  • Severe eye pain or headache
  • Blurred vision or halos around lights
  • Treatments Offered:
  • At Sierra Eye Group, we offer a range of treatments to manage glaucoma effectively:

Treatment

Prescription eye drops or oral medications to lower intraocular pressure and slow the progression of the disease.

Procedures such as selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) or laser peripheral iridotomy (LPI) to improve fluid drainage from the eye and reduce pressure.

Surgical interventions like trabeculectomy, minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS), or implantation of drainage devices to create new pathways for fluid drainage and lower eye pressure.

Trabeculectomy

Trabeculectomy is a traditional surgical procedure used to treat glaucoma. During this surgery, a small flap is created in the eye’s drainage system to allow excess fluid to drain out, reducing eye pressure.

Commonly used devices include the Molteno implant and the Ahmed Glaucoma Valve.

Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS)

MIGS refers to a group of advanced surgical techniques that are less invasive compared to traditional glaucoma surgeries. These procedures typically involve creating small incisions to implant tiny devices that improve fluid drainage and lower eye pressure.

Popular MIGS devices include the iStent, Hydrus Microstent, and Xen Gel Stent.

Implantation of Drainage Devices

This surgical option involves implanting small devices, such as tubes or shunts, into the eye to create new pathways for fluid drainage. These devices help to regulate intraocular pressure and manage glaucoma effectively.

Commonly used drainage devices include the Baerveldt Glaucoma Implant, Ahmed Glaucoma Valve, and Molteno implant.

Frequently Asked Questions About Glaucoma

Glaucoma is often associated with increased pressure within the eye, but other factors such as genetics, age, and underlying medical conditions may also play a role.

Glaucoma is diagnosed through a comprehensive eye exam, including tonometry to measure eye pressure, optic nerve evaluation, and visual field testing.

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent glaucoma, early detection and treatment can help slow or halt the progression of the disease and preserve vision.

Many insurance plans cover glaucoma screenings, medications, and surgical procedures. Our team can assist in verifying coverage and exploring payment options.

It is recommended to have a comprehensive eye exam every 1 to 2 years, especially if you are over the age of 40 or have risk factors for glaucoma such as a family history of the disease or high eye pressure.

Location

Serving our community

Serving Tulare & Kings Counties For Over 50 Years

Sierra Eye Group

2830 W. Main St.
Visalia, CA 93291

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(559) 636-1000
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(559) 636-3937
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