Glaucoma treatment
Glaucoma is treated by reducing pressure in the eye, which can help slow or prevent vision loss. Treatments include:Â
Eye drops
Prescription eye drops are the most common treatment. Some eye drops reduce the amount of fluid the eye produces, while others help fluid drain from the eye.Â
Laser treatment
A simple procedure that uses a laser to help fluid drain from the eye. Laser treatment is effective for most people, but it doesn’t work for everyone.Â
Surgery
If other treatments don’t work, surgery can help fluid drain from the eye. Surgery options include:Â
- Trabeculectomy:Â A flap is created in the sclera, and a small opening is made into the eye to release fluid.Â
- Glaucoma drainage device:Â A tiny drainage tube is implanted in the eye to send fluid to a reservoir beneath the conjunctiva.Â
- Cataract surgery:Â Removing the eye’s lens can create more space for fluid to leave the eye.Â
Types of glaucoma
Treatment for glaucoma depends on the type of glaucoma. For example, primary open angle glaucoma is usually treated with eye drops, while primary angle closure glaucoma may require immediate treatment in the hospital.Â
Early treatment is important for glaucoma, as it can slow or stop further vision loss. However, treatment cannot restore vision that has already been lost.Â
