Glaucoma

Glaucoma is the second most common cause of blindness in the over 50 population. Glaucoma is a disease of the Optic Nerve, the nerve which connects the eye to the brain. Damage to the Optic Nerve from Glaucoma results in loss of peripheral vision initially and finally loss of central vision in advanced cases. In most people Optic Nerve damage occurs because there is increased pressure inside the eye. Glaucoma usually causes no pain or discomfort and significant peripheral vision can be lost without a person noticing.

Treatments for Glaucoma

Fortunately, there are many treatment options available for Glaucoma. All treatments work by reducing the pressure inside the eye. Historically, this has been done by drops, which a patient must use every day for the remainder of their life.

Recently, many new treatments have emerged for Glaucoma. One of the most exciting developments has been a type of Laser treatment known as Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT). SLT laser is a painless procedure that can be performed in the clinic at Southside Eye Centre.

There are several day procedures which can be performed to treat Glaucoma. These surgeries include minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS), using implantable devices such as the i-Stent to lower the pressure.