Glaucoma is a serious eye illness that can lead to someone losing their vision. It happens when eye pressure becomes too high and damages the optic nerve.
 

Medications for Glaucoma

Medications are usually the first line of treatment for glaucoma. Most are eye drops that help lower eye pressure. There are several types of eye drops your doctor might recommend. Some reduce the amount of fluid your eyes produce. Others help the eye drain fluid more effectively.
 

Prostaglandin analogs are a common type of medication. These drops work by increasing fluid drainage. Beta-blockers are another option. They reduce the fluid your eyes produce, lowering overall pressure.
 

Sometimes, oral medications are used to help control eye pressure. Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors reduce the production of fluid in the eye. Your doctor will work with you to find the best medication for your needs.
 

It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Missing doses can make it harder to control eye pressure.
 

Laser Treatment for Glaucoma

If medications are not enough, laser treatments may be an option. Laser trabeculoplasty helps fluid to drain from the eye better. This can reduce eye pressure in people with open-angle glaucoma. The procedure is quick and usually performed in the doctor’s office.
 

Another laser treatment is laser iridotomy. This treatment is for narrow-angle glaucoma. Eye doctors make a small opening in the iris to allow fluid to drain. This can prevent the sudden rise in pressure that occurs with narrow-angle glaucoma.
 

Laser treatments are typically safe and effective, but they are not a cure. You may need ongoing treatment to keep your pressure under control.
 

Surgery for Glaucoma

Surgery may be needed when medications and laser treatments do not work well enough. One common surgical option is trabeculectomy. In this procedure, the surgeon creates a new drainage channel to help fluid escape. This can significantly lower eye pressure and protect your optic nerve.
 

Another surgical option is tube shunt surgery. A tiny tube is implanted in the eye to help drain excess fluid. People with advanced glaucoma go for this treatment. It is also used when other treatments fail.
 

Managing Glaucoma Long-Term

Glaucoma requires ongoing care to protect your vision. It is a lifelong condition, but with the right approach, you can manage it effectively. Regular eye exams are key to staying on top of your eye pressure and overall eye health. Your doctor will check for changes and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
 

Here are a few ways to help manage glaucoma over time:
 

• Stick to your treatment plan — Taking medications as prescribed is essential for controlling eye pressure. Missing doses can lead to an increase in pressure.

• Get regular checkups — Regular eye exams help catch any changes early. Your doctor will track your eye pressure and adjust your treatment accordingly.

• Wear sunglasses — Protecting your eyes from direct sunlight can help reduce the risk of higher pressure.

• Manage other health conditions — Conditions like diabetes can make glaucoma worse. Keep other health issues under control to avoid added risks.

• Stay active and healthy — Exercise and a balanced diet can support overall eye health.
   

Glaucoma often has no early warning signs, so it is crucial to stay proactive. Most people with glaucoma can maintain their vision with the right treatment plan. However, staying informed and following up with your doctor regularly is key.
 

While glaucoma is a serious condition, it does not have to mean losing your vision. With the right treatments, including medications, laser treatments, and sometimes surgery, most people can manage it effectively.
 

For more on glaucoma, visit West Texas Eyecare. Our offices are in Fort Stockton and Pecos, Texas. Call (432) 336-3662 or (432) 445-3662 to book an appointment today.

 

Sources:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/glaucoma/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20372846

https://www.nei.nih.gov/Glaucoma/glaucoma-medicines

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9359258/