Glaucoma is the second-leading cause of blindness, though the damage that is inflicted upon the optic nerve is frequently not noticeable until the disease has reached an advanced stage. The impairment of the optic nerve is due to abnormally high pressure within the eye. Early diagnosis and treatment can minimize the damage. Therefore, it is important that your eye doctor frequently measures your intraocular eye pressure. Glaucoma cannot be cured. However, with the proper care, vision loss can be slowed or prevented.
Eyedrops
Treatment for glaucoma often begins with at least one prescription of medicated eyedrops. If you are given two or more different types of eyedrops, be certain to ask your doctor how long you should wait between applications. There are six different types of eyedrops that can be given to patients suffering from glaucoma:
1. Beta-blockers reduce the production of aqueous humor (fluid) in the eye. They are taken one to two times a day. Some beta-blocker eyedrops include Timoptol, Nyogel, Teoptic and Betoptic.
2. Alpha-agonists also reduce the production of fluid within the eye. They are usually prescribed for use two to three times a day. Alphagan and Iopidine are the two most common types of alpha-agonist eyedrops.
3. Prostaglandin-like compounds. These drops increase the outflow of fluid from the eye. They are usually taken once a day, most frequently at night, before bed. The three most common prostaglandin eyedrops include Xalatan, Lumigan and Travatan.
4. Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, which usually goes under the names Azopt or Trusopt, decreases the production of fluid within the eye and is often prescribed for use two to three times a day.
5. Cholinergic agonists goes under the name Pilocarpine and the drops must be used three to four times a day. It increases the outflow of fluid from the eye.
6. Combinations are eyedrops on the market that combine the properties of two or more drops into one bottle. They include Xalacom and Cosopt.
Herbal Remedies and Alternative Medicine
Numerous herbal remedies have been marketed as treatment for glaucoma, although none have been proven completely effective. Several studies have shown that ginkgo biloba may offer some benefits to patients with glaucoma, as it increases the flow of blood to the eye without increasing intraocular pressure, blood pressure or heart rate. The extract of bilberry, the European blueberry, is also frequently mentioned as an herbal treatment for glaucoma. It is said to increase night vision and reduce glare recovery time. To date, there is no scientific data to suggest it is valuable in preventing or slowing the effects of glaucoma. Lastly, some studies have suggested marijuana as an effective, alternative treatment for glaucoma. Although it has been shown to reduce internal eye pressure, constant inhalation is required (up to every three hours). The extended oral use or inhalation of marijuana can also generate significant side effects that may require treatment in their own right. Always consult a medical professional before undertaking any herbal or alternative treatments.
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