Eye drops that keep the pressure at a safe level can usually control chronic open angle glaucoma. The drops most often prescribed are timolol maleate , which reduces fluid production and increases its outflow, and pilocarpine (Pilagan and others), which increases outflow by reducing the size of the pupil. Alternatively, acetazolamide (Diamox), an oral medication, may be prescribed. Marijuana also reduces fluid pressure, but the medicinal use of this illegal substance is reserved for acute cases that cannot be treated by conventional means. If medication alone fails or creates a problem with side effects, surgery may be performed, either traditionally or with a laser beam, to create an enlarged exit route for the aqueous humor. Or surgery may be used to implant a drainage valve. Sometimes a freezing probe is applied briefly to the portion of the eye that produces the fluid to decrease its output. With acute glaucoma, the immediate objective is to reduce pressure. This is done with eye drops to constrict the pupil, thereby moving the iris away from the outflow ducts. Massage of the eye may also stimulate fluid outflow. These simple measures tend to provide only temporary relief; usually another attack will occur unless surgery is performed. The most common operation is an iridectomy, in which a small hole is made in the iris to allow fluid to exit. A doctor may also advise this surgery for the unaffected eye, since anyone who has had an acute attack in one eye is likely to have one in the other. Congenital glaucoma is also treated with surgery to correct the defect and preserve vision.
Alternative Therapies
Alternative therapies cannot cure glaucoma. People with chronic glaucoma should use alternate methods only to complement medical treatment.
Nutrition Therapy
Some studies indicate that vitamin C supplements and bioflavonoids, especially the anthocyanidin compounds found in red and blue berries, may be useful adjunctive therapies for glaucoma.
Self Treatment
The most important aspect of self care with chronic glaucoma is to take all medications, including eye drops, precisely as prescribed. Avoid taking medications that raise intraocular pressure. These include tranquilizers and nonprescription cold and allergy pills and other drugs containing antihistamines or cortisone.
Video