Glaucoma - Page 3

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Page 3

Oct 1, 2003

There are several different kinds of eye drops that are used to treat glaucoma. Pilocarpine had been used for over 100 years. It has unpleasant side effects for some patients. Propine is effective if used with Pilocarpine or other medications. One side effect of this medication is teary and red eyes. Timolol is a beta-blocker. Side effects include bronchial asthma and a slow pulse rate. If your eye specialist prescribes Timolol, be sure to inform your family doctor. Xalatan is one of the newest medications for glaucoma. It is used before bed and sometimes in the morning as well. The latest drugs developed to treat glaucoma are, Cosopt, Lumigan and Travalan. These are used to treat open-angle glaucoma. They should not be administered to children.

When eye drops, oral medications and laser treatment do not decrease eye pressure, surgery may be necessary. This is when an artificial outlet for “aqueous humor” (eye fluid) is created. This procedure must be done in a hospital. Local anesthetic is given. “Aqueous humor” may also be decreased by laser energy being applied directly to the eyeball. This procedure is virtually painless. Though serious complications are rare, they can occur. Be sure to ask your doctor for statistics.

Never miss medications for glaucoma. Don’t drink products that contain caffeine. Never change your medication unless the change is made by your eye specialist. Be careful of over the counter medications, such as Sudafed and Benedryl. They can cause your eye pressure to go up. It is best to ask your eye specialist before taking any over the counter medications. It is imperative that he have a list of all the prescription drugs you are taking.

If you think you may be suffering from glaucoma, call your optometrist or eye specialist and schedule an appointment. Eyesight is precious.

Disclaimer: I am not a physician. This article was written from research and personal experience. If you experience any type of eye problems, be sure to contact your family physician or your eye specialist immediately.

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