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Eye Care Consultation Springfield Massachusetts

Good Vision Late in Life: Eye Care for Seniors

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As we get older, we face a number of changes in our general health and wellness. It’s all a part of the natural aging process, and it should come as no surprise that these changes can affect our vision.

Thankfully the team at Papale Eye Center have a number of treatment options for patients. Our springfield corrective eye surgery center offers a number of treatments that will be able to address the eye care needs of patients of all ages. With that in mind, let’s briefly cover some eye conditions that affect elderly patients.

About Cataracts

Cataracts refers to the clouding of the naturally clear lens or lenses of the eye, typically caused by long-term wear and tear, eye injuries, and UV ray exposure. This condition is common in the elderly, and it can severely affect the overall quality and clarity of a person’s vision.

The most common signs and symptoms of cataracts are the clouding of the lenses of the eye, which has a distinct milky/white appearance. When the lenses become cloudy, this can lead to hazy or blurry vision, and issues with light sensitivity.

How Cataracts Can Be Treated

For minor cataracts, sometimes the best option is to simply use corrective lenses to improve vision quality. When cataracts are serious, the best option to consider is surgical removal of the clouded lens of the eye. An IOL may then be placed to improve vision quality.

About Presbyopia

Presbyopia is a type of farsightedness (hyperopia) that sets in starting at about age 45. This natural part of the aging process is caused by the lenses of the eye losing their flexibility and ability to focus.

The most common sign of presbyopia is the increased difficulty in seeing nearby objects. Many people may find it difficult to read small print or to read in general without ample light.

How Presbyopia Can Be Treated

Presbyopia can be treated in a number of ways. For one, corrective lenses such as bifocals or the use of multiple pairs of glasses is common. Monovision laser eye surgery is also helpful as well. In some cases, patients may have their lenses replaced with an intraocular lens (IOL), a type of artificial lens.

About Age-Related Macular Degeneration (ARMD/AMD)

Also known as AMD and ARMD, age-related macular degeneration refers to an issue caused by blood vessels damaging the central portion of the retina (the macula). AMD is the leading cause of vision loss in people who are 65 or older.

Common signs and symptoms of AMD include blurriness or vision loss in the central portion of one’s vision, problems with color perception, the apparent curvature of lines that are in reality straight.

How Age-Related Macular Degeneration (ARMD/AMD) Can Be Treated

There are different kinds of AMD (wet and dry), and treatments can be tailored to specifically address a patient’s needs. Wet AMD can be treated with anti-angiogenic medications that help prevent formation of new blood vessels. Special laser therapy may also be considered to address major central vision loss.

About Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a serious and irreversible form of permanent vision loss. It’s caused by increased pressure inside of the eye damaging the optic nerve. While not linked to advanced age per se, people tend to experience glaucoma much later in life.

The most common signs and symptoms of glaucoma are issues with vision loss in the center or periphery of the field of vision. In some cases, glaucoma may also cause eye pain and headaches.

How Glaucoma Can Be Treated

Treating glaucoma means stopping the vision loss or slowing the rate of vision loss. This can be done through the use of special medications, though surgical drainage of the eye may also be considered to help alleviate some of the intraocular pressure.

Learn More About Eye Care for the Elderly

For more information about treating advanced eye care issues and helping you see clearly again, be sure to contact our advanced laser eye care center today. The team at Papale Eye Center is here to help you have great vision no matter your age.

Glaucoma Eye Care Consultation Springfield Massachusetts

SLT Laser Surgery Can Treat Glaucoma and Prevent Vision Loss

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Glaucoma-LasersAt Papale Eye Center, the preservation of eye health is our top priority. By helping our patients to maintain good eye health, we can ensure that they are able to continue to enjoy clear, focused vision. Unfortunately, there are many conditions that threaten both the health and function of the eyes. Glaucoma is a condition in which fluid builds up in the eye, increasing intraocular pressure and, eventually, damaging the optic nerves to the point that vision is impaired. Without proper treatment, glaucoma can lead to irreparable damage. In fact, it is one of the leading causes of blindness in adults over the age of 40. Fortunately, there are treatments that can curtail the effects of glaucoma so that patients can continue to benefit from clear vision. One treatment offered by our team of doctors is SLT laser surgery. Contact our Springfield, MA practice to learn more about SLT laser treatment.

When to Seek Treatment for Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a progressive eye condition that does not always result in noticeable side effects. Some patients can suffer from glaucoma for years before their vision is affected. Some of the most common symptoms of glaucoma include blurred vision, halos around sources of light, and blind spots. If any of these symptoms develop, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible. However, once vision is lost, it is likely that glaucoma is already in its advanced stages. To avoid permanent damage from glaucoma, we recommend that patients maintain a schedule of routine eye exams (at least once every two years). These comprehensive exams are the best way to diagnose glaucoma so that treatment can start before a patient’s vision is compromised.

What Is SLT Laser Surgery?

SLT laser surgery is a common treatment for open-angle glaucoma. Open-angle glaucoma is the result of the eye’s inability to properly drain excess fluids. When the drainage tissues are not working properly, fluid builds up and increases the patient’s intraocular pressure. This increase of pressure can cause permanent damage to the optic nerves. If the optic nerves are damaged, they cannot send proper signals to the brain. SLT laser surgery addresses problems with the drainage tissues to decrease intraocular pressure.

During SLT laser surgery, laser energy is applied directly to the drainage tissues of the eye. This energy is absorbed by the drainage tissues and, over time, causes a chemical reaction that improves the tissues’ abilities to drain fluids from the eyes. SLT, or selective laser trabeculoplasty, uses a laser that has minimal heat absorption. This type of laser is only absorbed by selected tissues in the eye. This technique is low risk and results in minimal side effects, as well as a short recovery period.

SLT Results

The improvements of the eye’s drainage tissues are gradual, so patients should not expect immediate results. However, within one to three months after surgery, results should begin to become noticeable. Most patients who undergo SLT surgery see a 30 percent decrease in intraocular pressure. While the results of SLT are not permanent, they should last between one and five years. This allows patients to slow the progression of glaucoma while continuing to enjoy clear vision.

Contact Us

At Papale Eye Center, our team of experienced eye doctors offer a comprehensive range of treatments for the most common conditions that impact eye health and vision. To learn more about SLT surgery for glaucoma or any of our other beneficial eye services, contact us at your earliest convenience.

Eye Care Consultation Springfield Massachusetts

Medications for Glaucoma Treatment: Saving Your Eyesight

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Here at Papale Eye Center, we always attempt to work conservatively when it comes to addressing serious vision problems. The people of Springfield deserve excellent eye care, and that tends to mean working in a manner that assesses a situation and then acts appropriately.

If we are able to diagnose or detect glaucoma early, the ideal treatment will typically involve the use of medications in combination with lifestyle improvements. Let’s take a broad look at the medications commonly used to treat glaucoma.

About Glaucoma

Glaucoma is one of the most serious forms of permanent vision loss that a person can face. The condition is caused by an increase in intraocular pressure that results in damage to the optic nerve. The effects of glaucoma are irreversible, so treatments for the condition are predominantly aimed at slowing the rate of vision loss or maintaining current vision.

Eye drops are the most common kinds of medications used to treat glaucoma, but oral medications can also be used to address the condition. Let’s look at some of the common medication types.

Alpha Agonists

Alpha agonists are used to help increase the drainage of fluid within a person’s eye. This drug will also help reduce the amount of fluid produced by the eye. While generic versions of these drugs are available, they are marketed under the brand names Alphagan and Propine.

Potential side effects of alpha agonists include:

  • Reduced heart rate
  • Lower blood pressure
  • Shortness of breath
  • Fatigue

Beta Blockers

The second most common kind of glaucoma medication, beta blockers are used to decrease the amount of fluid within your eyes. Generic beta blockers are available, though they are marketed under the brand names Timoptic, Betagan, Betimol, and Ocupress.

Potential side effects of beta blockers include:

  • Reduced heart rate
  • Lower blood pressure
  • Shortness of breath
  • Fatigue

Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors (CAIs)

Like beta blockers, CAIs are used in order to reduce the production of intraocular fluid. CAIs are available in both pill form and eye drop form, and they are marketed under the names Azopt, Diamox, and Trusopt.

Potential side effects of carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (CAIs) include:

  • Itchiness and stinging in the eyes (eye drop form)
  • Upset stomach (pill form)
  • Depression (pill form)
  • Tingling hands (pill form)
  • Tingling feet (pill form)
  • Frequent need to urinate (pill form)

Prostaglandin Analogs

Prostaglandin analogs are taken in order to improve the outflow of fluid from a person’s eyes. Available in generic form like all of the drugs listed, prostaglandin analogs are marketed under the brand names Lumigan, Travatan, and Xalatan.

Potential side effects of prostaglandin analogs include:

  • Changes in eye color
  • Changes in skin color of the eyelids
  • Blurry vision
  • Red eye
  • Itchy eyes
  • Burning sensation of eyes

Combining Medications

When a single glaucoma medication is not enough to improve overall wellness and results, it’s not uncommon for combinations of glaucoma medications to be used. The ideal combination of medications can be discussed in greater detail during your consultation at the practice.

Learn More About Treating Glaucoma

For more information about glaucoma and how it can be treated effectively, be sure to contact our advanced vision correction center today. The team here at Papale Eye Center looks forward to your visit and helping you achieve good eyesight and maintain total wellness.

Eye Care Consultation Springfield Massachusetts

Glaucoma Risk Factors: Knowing The Warning Signs

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327062306-2The team at Papale Eye Center has helped countless people in and around Springfield achieve excellent vision and maintain healthy eyes. This is part of our focus on regular screenings and exams to ensure early detection. These are important considerations when it comes to glaucoma, a leading cause of vision loss and blindness.

Let’s take a moment to consider what glaucoma is, what signs and symptoms people should note, and some risk factors that people should be aware of.

About Glaucoma

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of irreversible vision loss in the world. The condition occurs when the increased pressure within the eye causes damage to the optic nerve. Glaucoma is an irreversible condition, unfortunately, but early detection and treatment will help slow the vision loss and preserve the patient’s vision in the process.

Signs and Symptoms of Glaucoma

The most common signs and symptoms of open-angle glaucoma include:

  • Blind spots in central vision (often in both eyes)
  • Blind spots in peripheral vision (often in both eyes)
  • Tunnel vision

The most common signs and symptoms of acute angle-closure glaucoma include:

  • Severe headaches
  • Ocular pain
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Blurry vision
  • Halos
  • Red eye

A Family History of Glaucoma

If other members of your family have suffered from glaucoma, particularly a parent or grandparent, there is a greater risk of developing glaucoma later in life.

Advanced Age

Glaucoma is more commonly diagnosed in people who are older. In particular, people who are 60 or older experience a higher risk for glaucoma.

Race and Ethnic Background

Studies have found that people of certain ethnic backgrounds are more likely to suffer from glaucoma. Particular groups at risk include people of the following backgrounds:

  • African
  • Caribbean
  • Hispanic
  • Asian

Previous Eye Injury

Suffering a serious eye injury in the past can result in problems with overall eye health. Not only are cataracts more likely, but glaucoma risk similarly increases.

Prior Eye Surgery

In addition to eye injuries, prior eye surgeries can also increase your risk of various eye problems, including glaucoma. This risk will likely be mentioned as part of the pre-op consultation process.

Certain Medical Conditions

A number of medical conditions can increase the pressure within the eyes. Conditions that raise intraocular pressure include

  • Diabetes
  • Hypertension (high blood pressure)
  • Hypotension (low blood pressure)
  • Migraines

Steroid Use

Steroid use can lead to a whole host of serious health problems, including an increased risk of developing glaucoma. Some studies say that people who use steroids are up to 40 percent more likely to develop glaucoma.

Thin Corneas

The corneas are the thin, transparent front portion of the eye. Light passes through the corneas on the way to the retinas. When you have corneas that are especially thin, this can lead to an increased risk of glaucoma.

Nearsightedness and Farsightedness

When someone has high-degree nearsightedness (myopia) or general farsightedness (hyperopia), they tend to experience a greater risk of developing glaucoma later in life.

Get Your Eyes Checked Regularly

The best way to have glaucoma diagnosed as soon as possible is to regularly visit your eye doctor. Regular checkups can mean early detection and retention of overall vision in the long run.

Schedule a Consultation at Papale Eye Center

For more information about glaucoma and how it can be properly treated, be sure to contact our eye care and vision correction center today. The team at Papale Eye Center will help you achieve great vision and healthy eyesight.

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