Glaucoma is a disease of the optic nerve in which pressure inside the eye is too high for the eye to tolerate. Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness, but loss of sight from glaucoma can be prevented with early treatment.
Eyedrops for glaucoma are used to lower the pressure within the eye. They reduce the fluid pressure in one of two ways.
They either:
1. Decrease the amount of fluid forming in the eye, or
2. Increase the ability of the eye to drain fluid.
This fluid is called aqueous humor. It is inside the eye, and is different from tears.
To be effective, eyedrops must be used every day according to your doctor’s instructions.
Watching for Side Effects
Glaucoma medicine can keep you from losing your sight. However, you may need to tolerate mild side effects.
Different glaucoma eyedrops can cause different side effects. If you experience any, contact your ophthalmologist (Eye M.D.) immediately. Also, tell your other doctors if you are using eyedrops for glaucoma.
Beta-Blockers
They can cause:
* Breathing problems for those with asthma or emphysema
* Slow or irregular heartbeat
* Depression
* Change in sex drive (impotence)
Alpha Agonists
They can cause:
* A red eye or red skin around the eye
* Dry mouth
* Fatigue or decreased energy
Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors
They can cause:
* Eye redness or irritation
* Skin rash (especially in individuals with known allergy to sulfa drugs)
* Change in taste (especially with carbonated beverages)
* Stomach upset or nausea
* Fatigue and decreased energy
Prostaglandin Analogs or Prostamides
They can cause:
* Eye redness or irritation
* A change in eye color (mostly in hazel or blue to green eyes)
* Increase in thickness and number of eyelashes
* Joint aches or flu-like syndrome
Miotics
They can cause:
* Blurred vision
* Headache
* Retinal detachment
Retinal detachment is rare. If you notice dark floating spots or flashing lights in your vision, call your ophthalmologist immediately.
Many new eyedrops are becoming available. As with any medication, eye medications can cause eye allergies, irritation or other side effects, as listed above.
Original article at :-
http://www.eyecareamerica.org/eyecare/treatment/glaucoma-eyedrops.cfm
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
