Glaucoma

Ask an Eye M.D. Answer Archive

Question:
I was diagnosed with glaucoma three years ago, and so far I've been doing OK. I have to use the eye drops my ophthalmologist prescribed every day, but sometimes I forget for a few days. Is it alright to miss a few days with the drops?

Answer:
I know how hard it can be to stick to a daily schedule, but it's important that you never miss taking your eye drops. Glaucoma is usually controlled with eye drops taken daily. These medications lower eye pressure, either by decreasing the amount of aqueous fluid produced within the eye or by improving the drainage from the eye. The eye drops must be taken on daily basis. Just like any other medication, it is important to take your eye drops regularly as prescribed by your Eye M.D. You should also never change or stop taking your medications without consulting your Eye M.D. If, despite your best efforts, this continues to be an ongoing problem, make sure to tell your Eye M.D. He or she may discuss other possible options for you, such as a laser treatment.

Answered by: Andrew Iwach, MD  

Categories: Eye Diseases; Glaucoma

Have a question that hasn't been answered yet? Ask it!