Common questions about glaucoma answered
Here are the most common questions about glaucoma answered. Just remember that any concerns you have should be raised with a healthcare professional.
What is glaucoma?
Glaucoma is the name given to a group of eye diseases in which the optic nerve at the back of the eye is slowly destroyed. In most people this damage is due to an increased pressure inside the eye – a result of blockage of the circulation of aqueous, or its drainage. In other people, the damage may be caused by poor blood supply to the vital optic nerve fibres, a weakness in the structure of the nerve, and/or a problem in the health of the nerve fibres themselves.
What glaucoma treatments are available?
Doctors usually prescribe special glaucoma eye drops but if the drops don’t work, surgery is often the next step.
When my eyes feel dry, can I take more of my glaucoma drops?
The short answer: no. Glaucoma drops can themselves have a side effect of causing dry eyes so increasing the drops could actually exacerbate the dryness. Always follow the instructions that come with prescribed drops and consult your eye care professional if there are any problems.
What is the ideal eye pressure?
It varies for each individual and is dependent on personal history, exam, and testing. One size does not fit all when it comes to an ideal eye pressure target.
Does high blood pressure affect my eye pressure?
Increased blood pressure over a long period of time can lead to decrease circulation of blood to your eye, which can affect your glaucoma.
Can I take my drop every other day to save on drops?
Glaucoma drops are specifically formulated medications so instructions for application should be followed to the letter.
Can I still wear contact lenses if I have glaucoma?
This depends on the type of glaucoma treatment your doctor selects for you. It is usually possible for you to continue wearing contacts if you use eye drops, although you need to consult your doctor.