At Best Practice Eyecare, their ophthalmologist, Dr Michael Karpa, treats conditions, including two potentially blinding diseases: Age-Related Macular Degeneration (ARMD) and Glaucoma.
Regular screening with your optometrist, early intervention and compliance with recommended treatment plans can prevent low vision and blindness. Their highly skilled, dedicated and caring staff will assess and assist you throughout your journey.They offer the latest therapies and technology, including SLT laser and subcyclodiode laser, for treating glaucoma without needing drops.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration, a progressive eye condition affecting the macula, can lead to permanently reduced vision, blindness and severely impact quality of life. Macular degeneration is Australia’s leading cause of permanent vision loss in people over forty. The macula is the central part of the retina responsible for your fine vision, such as reading vision.
To prevent vision loss and blindness from macular degeneration, regular eye examinations are essential. Early diagnosis allows for appropriate treatment strategies to reduce disease progression and the risk of blindness.
When macular degeneration causes significant vision loss, support is essential. Joining support groups or seeking counselling can help you navigate the challenges associated with vision loss. Medical treatment, lifestyle modifications, and support services are comprehensive approaches to managing macular degeneration.
Glaucoma, often called the “sneak thief of sight,” is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, typically due to increased intraocular pressure. While there’s no cure for glaucoma, effective management can prevent further vision loss and blindness.
Regular eye examinations are crucial for early detection, especially for persons over 40 with a family history of glaucoma, high intraocular pressure, diabetes or previous eye injury or surgery. Glaucoma can affect anyone. Celebrities including Bono, Whoopi Goldberg, Andrea Bocelli and Christie Brinkley are treated for glaucoma.
Eye drops, oral medications, laser therapy, or surgery might be recommended based on the type and severity of glaucoma. Adhering to prescribed treatments and attending follow-up appointments is vital to preserving vision.
Living with glaucoma demands lifestyle adjustments. Managing stress, maintaining a healthy diet, staying physically active, and avoiding smoking can contribute positively. Ongoing communication with eye care professionals such as Dr Michael Karpa and his team and glaucoma support networks aids in navigating the challenges of living with glaucoma.
