How Is Glaucoma Managed With Medication?

Glaucoma is an eye condition that can lead to significant vision loss or blindness if left untreated. The eye care professionals at Sunny Isles Eye Center in Sunny Isles Beach, FL, understand the importance of correctly managing glaucoma to prevent vision loss. We are here to tell you more about how our optometrist can manage your glaucoma with medications.

Understanding Glaucoma Medications

There are several categories of prescription eye drops used for glaucoma treatment. These medications either decrease fluid production in your eyes or improve drainage to lower your inner eye pressure. Our eye doctor will determine which medication is most appropriate for each patient based on the type and severity of their glaucoma. Common options include:

• prostaglandins to increase fluid outflow
• beta-blockers to reduce fluid production
• alpha agonists to decrease fluid and increase drainage
• carbonic anhydrase inhibitors to lower fluid production

Patients will typically use glaucoma medication daily to keep eye pressure at the right level and minimize optic nerve damage. Consistent use is vital since stopping medications can allow eye pressure spikes and accelerate vision loss.

Understanding Possible Medication Side Effects

Understanding the potential side effects of prescribed eye drop medications is crucial for glaucoma patients. Patients may experience the following side effects:

• vision changes like blurry vision, reduced night vision, and ocular discomfort
• respiratory issues like shortness of breath and respiratory obstruction
• cardiovascular effects like slowed heart rate and low blood pressure
• fatigue and lethargy
• changes in taste or smell

Alert your eye doctor about any concerning or disruptive side effects so they can adjust your treatment. Your eye doctor may change your dosage, switch medication types, add adjunct therapies, or use various administration techniques to minimize side effects.

See Your Optometrist Near You for Glaucoma Treatment Today

Glaucoma can significantly impact your day-to-day life and lead to permanent vision loss, so contact Sunny Isles Eye Center in Sunny Isles Beach, FL, for glaucoma treatment today. We provide comprehensive evaluation, testing, and management of glaucoma symptoms to protect your vision. Call us and schedule an appointment today at (305) 917-1037.