Treatments for Glaucoma

The management of glaucoma depends on the type, the underlying cause, and the severity of the disease. Treatment may involve medications, in the form of eye drops or oral drugs, laser procedures, or surgery.

Glaucoma cannot be cured. The focus and goal of treatment is to control the disease and prevent or slow any further visual damage from occurring.

Numerous studies have shown that lowering the pressure inside the eye (intraocular pressure) decreases the risk of glaucoma progression. Just how much to lower the pressure and exactly how to do it is different for every patient. In fact, some patients and their physicians may decide not to treat glaucoma, but instead to simply monitor for any progression. If your doctor prescribes treatment, it is important that you follow the regimen as closely as possible.

Treatment involves the following:

Lifestyle changes Medications Surgery

References

American Academy of Ophthalmology website. Available at: http://www.aao.org/ .

National Eye Institute website. Available at: http://www.nei.nih.gov/ .

Mayo Clinic Eye Center website. Available at: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/glaucoma/DS00283/DSECTION=2 . Accessed Feb 2, 2007.

Revision Information

Reviewer: Christopher Cheyer, MD
Update Date: 09/01/2011

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.