Treating Glaucoma With Eyedrops and Oral Medications
Eyedrops can improve the flow of fluid from your eyes, thus releasing pressure. Other types of eyedrops decrease the amount of fluid produced by your eyes. The type of fluid you get depends on how much pressure you have. Some people require both types of eyedrops. Types of eyedrops include:
- Prostaglandins increase the amount of fluid that flows out of your eyes.
- Beta-blockers reduce fluid production.
- Alpha-adrenergic agonists reduce fluid production and the outflow of fluid.
- Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors reduce the production of fluid.
- Rho kinase inhibitors suppress the rho kinase enzymes that create fluid.
- Miotic or cholinergic agents increase outflow.
Oral medications help bring the pressure down when eyedrops can’t do it alone. This medication is often a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor.
Surgery and Laser Therapy
Your doctor will recommend surgical or laser treatment when medications are not enough. Treatments include:
- Laser Therapy: This is often used when people can’t tolerate eyedrops. It is also commonly used if the pressure in your eye doesn’t respond to eye drops.
- Filtering Surgery: A trabeculectomy is a surgical procedure where the surgeon creates an opening in your sclera (the white of your eye). It creates an opening for fluid to leave your eye.
- Drainage Tubes: Your surgeon inserts a tiny tube in your eye to facilitate drainage.
- Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS): There are several MIGS techniques available. This type of surgery is often done with cataract surgery. After examining your eyes, your doctor will discuss which MIGS is best for you.
Where to Find Glaucoma Treatment in Wakefield, MA
North Suburban Eye Associates, PC serves Wakefield, Winchester, Waltham, and the surrounding areas in Massachusetts. To find out more about glaucoma treatments, speak with a doctor at North Suburban Eye Associates, PC. To schedule a consultation, please call 781-245-5200 in Wakefield and Winchester or 617-864-3600 in Waltham.