by What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is an eye condition that causes damage to the optic nerve of the eye. It often happens when the fluid pressure inside the eye rises. This high pressure damages the optic nerve over time and causes vision loss. Glaucoma runs in families so you are more likely to get it if a close relative has it. Age is also a risk factor since the risk rises as you get older.
Causes and Types of Glaucoma
The most common cause of Glaucoma Eye Drops is narrowed or blocked drainage canals in the eye that allow fluid to flow out of the eye. This causes fluid pressure to build up inside the eye. There are different types of glaucoma depending on the cause:
Primary open-angle glaucoma- This is the most common type where the drainage canals are just narrowed or blocked slowly over time. It develops silently so you may not notice any changes in vision until damage has occurred.
Closed-angle glaucoma- Here the drainage canal is suddenly blocked when the iris touches the cornea and blocks the drainage canal. This causes a sudden rise in eye pressure and pain in the eye. It requires emergency treatment.
Secondary glaucoma- This develops due to underlying eye problems or as a side effect of medications used for other conditions. It can also develop after eye injuries or surgery.
Normal Tension Glaucoma- In this type, optic nerve damage occurs even though the eye pressure is within the normal range. The cause is still being researched.
Symptoms and Diagnosis of Glaucoma
In the early stages, glaucoma may not cause noticeable vision problems. As the disease progresses, some common symptoms are:
– Loss of peripheral vision as small blind spots develop
– Halos around lights at night
– Blurred vision from the center of vision outwards
– Migraines or eye pain when reading
An eye doctor will check for symptoms, family history, eye pressure measurement and examine the optic nerve to diagnose glaucoma. Testing vision field and optical coherence tomography can reveal nerve damage. Comparing these results over time helps monitor disease progression.
Treatment Options for Glaucoma
Lowering eye pressure is the main goal of glaucoma treatment to slow or stop further vision loss. Options include eye drops, oral medications, lasers and surgery depending on the type and severity:
Eye Drops- The most common initial treatment uses various types of glaucoma eye drops that lower eye pressure by either increasing drainage or decreasing fluid production. Common ones are prostaglandin analogs, beta-blockers, alpha agonists and carbonic anhydrase inhibitors. Using them as prescribed is key to controlling glaucoma.
Laser Treatment- Laser trabeculoplasty uses laser to open blocked drainage angles and improve fluid flow out of the eye. It is an option when drops are not enough.
Surgery- When other treatments fail to control pressure, surgical procedures like trabeculectomy create a new drainage channel or tube shunt to redirect fluid out of the eye. They are more invasive but maintain lower pressure long term if successful.
Importance of Using Glaucoma Eye Drops Correctly
Glaucoma eye drops are generally the first line treatment to lower eye pressure. However, drops need to be administered regularly as prescribed to effectively manage glaucoma. Some key points about using eye drops correctly:
– Shake the bottle before use to evenly distribute the active ingredients
– Wash and dry your hands before use to minimize infections
– Tilt your head back and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket
– Look up and spray or drop the medication into the pocket without touching the bottle tip to the eye
– Close your eye for 2-3 minutes without blinking after each drop
– Apply prescribed nightly doses as the last thing before sleeping to improve compliance
– Use a tray or mirror to assist in administration if needed due to vision loss
– Do not continue an empty bottle or miss doses without informing your doctor
– Store bottles upright, replace every 2-4 weeks and dispose empty bottles properly
Common Side Effects
While generally well tolerated, glaucoma eye drops can potentially cause:
– Eye irritation, stinging or burning sensation: This usually lessens over time as the eyes adjust. Applying a warm compress or using preservative-free versions may help.
– Blurred vision: It is usually temporary but inform your doctor if severe or persists.
– Allergic reactions: Rarely an allergic conjunctivitis occurs. Seek help if redness, pain or photophobia worsens.
– Eyelash and skin pigmentation: Certain drops can cause change in eyelash/skin color over time in some individuals.
– Headaches: Report severe or unusual headaches as they may signify low blood pressure.
Most side effects are mild and will resolve. Discontinue use and consult your eye doctor for any new symptoms or worsening reactions. Following proper drop administration technique also helps minimize side effects.
Key Takeaways on Managing Glaucoma with Eye Drops
In summary, glaucoma eye drops are generally safe and effective when used as directed lifelong. However, strict compliance is needed to achieve long term control of this progressive disease. Addressing any compliance barriers, side effects or concerns with your doctor regularly will help optimize glaucoma management using eye drops and halt further vision loss from this condition.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public Source, Desk Research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it.
