How to treat glaucoma

Generally, the main treatment methods for glaucoma include medication, laser therapy, surgical intervention, lifestyle adjustments, and regular monitoring. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Medication

Medication is the foundational treatment for glaucoma, aiming to lower intraocular pressure (IOP) and protect the optic nerve. Patients may use medications such as brinzolamide eye drops, timolol maleate eye drops, latanoprost eye drops, pilocarpine eye drops, or brimonidine tartrate eye drops under medical supervision. Different drugs have different mechanisms of action—for example, brinzolamide reduces aqueous humor production, while latanoprost enhances its outflow. The choice of medication should be based on individual patient conditions.

2. Laser Therapy

Laser therapy uses specific wavelengths of light to target ocular structures and improve aqueous humor circulation. For angle-closure glaucoma, laser peripheral iridotomy is commonly performed to create a small hole in the iris and relieve blockage of the anterior chamber angle. For open-angle glaucoma, laser trabeculoplasty can be used to enhance the drainage function of the trabecular meshwork, thereby reducing IOP. This approach is minimally invasive and allows for rapid recovery.

3. Surgical Treatment

Surgery is considered when medication or laser therapy fails to adequately control IOP. Common procedures include trabeculectomy and glaucoma drainage device implantation. Trabeculectomy creates a new drainage pathway for aqueous humor, while drainage device surgery uses an artificial implant to facilitate fluid outflow. Both methods effectively reduce IOP and are typically recommended for moderate-to-advanced or refractory glaucoma.

4. Lifestyle Adjustments

Lifestyle modifications can support disease management. Patients should avoid prolonged head-down positions or bending over, which may increase IOP. Maintaining emotional stability is important, as stress or mood swings can elevate eye pressure. Diet-wise, intake of high-salt and spicy foods should be reduced; instead, patients should consume more fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins. Fluid intake should be controlled—drinking large amounts at once should be avoided. Regular sleep patterns and avoiding late nights are also recommended.

5. Regular Monitoring

Regular monitoring is a crucial component of glaucoma management. Patients should undergo routine IOP measurements and evaluations of the optic nerve and visual field. Continuous monitoring enables doctors to track disease progression and adjust treatment plans promptly, preventing further optic nerve damage. This is especially important for patients on long-term medication or those who have undergone surgery, as regular follow-ups ensure both the effectiveness and safety of treatment.

In addition, patients must strictly adhere to medical advice during treatment and should not discontinue medication or alter their treatment plan without consultation. If symptoms such as sudden vision loss or increased eye pain occur, immediate medical attention is required. Glaucoma requires lifelong management, and scientifically guided, standardized treatment and care can effectively slow disease progression and preserve visual function.