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When diagnosed with glaucoma, your ophthalmologist will recommend one or a combination of the following treatment options: Laser Therapy SLT, Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty Selective laser trabeculoplasty, or SLT, is a gentle and non-invasive treatment for glaucoma. This quick and simple procedure is an effective option for most glaucoma patients, but is especially suited to patients who cannot tolerate or are unable to self-administer glaucoma medications. Highly effective, SLT is used as primary treatment for early stages of open angle glaucoma, and can also be used in combination with drug therapy, or as an alternative therapy when drugs fail. It is also a flexible treatment option, because it can be repeated, if necessary, depending on the individual patient's response. The SLT technique is not associated with adverse side effects and is a pain-free, outpatient-based procedure performed in your ophthalmologist's office. ALT, Argon Laser Trabeculoplasty Argon Laser Trabeculoplasty (ALT) was formerly the most widely used laser treatment for glaucoma. There are many problems associated with ALT, including irreversible damage to the eye, along with permanent scarring. Drug Therapy Drug therapy is the most common form of glaucoma treatment; however, there are many side effects associated with long-term drug use, and medications aren't effective for all patients - and you have to remember to take your medication every day. Common side effects include allergic reactions, iris discoloration, drowsiness and burning sensations. Traditional drug therapy has been based on topical eye drops, including beta-blockers and carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (CAI), which decrease aqueous fluid production. Newer drugs increase aqueous fluid outflow. Surgical If non-surgical methods fail to lower intraocular pressure to a safe level, your ophthalmologist may decide to perform surgery. The two major types of glaucoma surgery are:
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