As a rule, damage caused by glaucoma cannot be reversed. Eye drops, laser surgery, and surgery (in the operating room) are used to help prevent further damage. In some cases, oral medications may also be prescribed. With any type of glaucoma, periodic examinations are important to prevent vision loss. Glaucoma can progress without your knowledge, hence the need for routine follow-up visits to check the progression of the disease and adjust therapy as needed.

Medication

Glaucoma is usually controlled with medicated eye drops each day. The drops lower eye pressure by reducing aqueous production or increasing outflow through the drainage angle or other tissue. Never change or stop taking medication without consulting your ophthalmologist. Glaucoma medications can preserve vision but may also produce side effects.

Notify your ophthalmologist if you think you are experiencing side effects, including:

  • A stinging or itching sensation
  • Blurred vision
  • Changes in breathing (especially with asthma or emphysema)
  • Changes in energy level
  • Changes in eye color
  • Changes in pulse and heartbeat
  • Changes in sense of taste
  • Dry mouth
  • Headaches
  • Red eyes or redness of the skin surrounding the eyes

All medications can have side effects or possible interaction with other medicines. It is important to make a list of all medications you regularly take and share it with every doctor you see.

Laser surgery

Laser surgery treatment may be recommended for different types of glaucoma. In open-angle glaucoma, the drain itself is treated. The laser is used to modify the drain (trabeculoplasty) to help control eye pressure. In closed-angle glaucoma, the laser creates a hole in the iris (iridotomy) to improve the flow of aqueous fluid to the drain.

Microsurgery 

When surgery in the operating room is needed to treat glaucoma, your ophthalmologist uses fine, microsurgical instruments to create a new drainage channel for the aqueous fluid to leave the eye. Surgery is recommended if your ophthalmologist feels it is necessary to prevent further damage to the optic nerve.