Are you unsure how to manage your glaucoma? Read on to learn more about the three most common types of treatment.
Eye drops
Eye drops are the most common form of treatment for patients with glaucoma. They're easy to use, and usually effective when taken as directed. The type of eye drop prescribed will vary based on the type and severity of your glaucoma. For example, prostaglandins are used relieve ocular pressure by draining excess fluid from the eye. Beta blockers, on the other hand, slow the production of fluid. Your doctor may even prescribe a few different types of drops to be used together.
Depending on the type of eye drop used, side effects range from vision changes, red eyes, fatigue, high or low blood pressure, and dry mouth. You may need to work with your doctor to manage some of these side effects.
Surgery
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat glaucoma. Surgical treatment is usually done with a laser, reducing recovery time. A trabeculectomy is one common type of glaucoma treatment, where tissue is removed from the eye, allowing excess fluid to drain. Alternatively, your doctor may recommend a tube-shunt procedure, where a drainage tube is installed in the eye. In those with closed-angle glaucoma, surgery may be done to direct excess fluid through the iris. This is called an iridotomy.
If the new drainage holes in the eye become blocked, the next step is a cyclodestructive procedure. During a cyclodestructive procedure, a surgeon damages the portion of the eye that produces fluid. Side effects can be severe, and include cataracts, pain, and vision changes.
Lifestyle modifications
For those hesitant to use medication, lifestyle modifications may help keep the symptoms of glaucoma under control. Eating nutrient-dense foods like fruits, veggies, and lean protein while decreasing caffeine and fatty food consumption may be beneficial in glaucoma patients. It's also important to drink adequate amounts of water, and exercise regularly.
Some supplements may also help with glaucoma. Omega-3 fatty acids help reduce inflammation throughout the body, including in the eye. Lutein and bilberry may help improve eye health. Antioxidant-rich vitamins, such as vitamins C and A, may help manage glaucoma, as well.
While lifestyle modifications may help manage your symptoms, your doctor may still recommend traditional forms of treatment alongside a healthy lifestyle.
Failure to treat glaucoma could result in blindness. Work with a local doctor, like Leader Heights Eye Center, to determine what type of treatment is best for you.
Share25 May 2015
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