Treatment Options for Glaucoma
Although there is no
glaucoma cure, glaucoma can usually be controlled. The most common treatments are:
Medications
Glaucoma medication may come in the form of eye drops or pills. Some glaucoma drugs are designed to reduce pressure by slowing the flow of fluid into the eye. Others help to improve fluid drainage.
For most people with glaucoma, regular use of glaucoma medications will control the increased fluid pressure. However, these drugs may stop working over time. They may also cause side effects. If a problem occurs, the eye care professional may select other glaucoma medications, change the dosage, or suggest other ways to deal with the problem.
Laser Surgery
During glaucoma laser surgery, a strong beam of light is focused on the part of the anterior chamber where the fluid leaves the eye. This results in a series of small changes, which makes it easier for fluid to exit the eye. Over time, the effect of laser surgery for glaucoma may wear off. Patients who have this form of surgery may need to continue taking glaucoma medications.
Surgery
Traditional glaucoma surgery can also help fluid escape from the eye, and thereby reduce the pressure. However, surgery for glaucoma is usually reserved for patients whose pressure cannot be controlled with eye drops, pills, or laser surgery.
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