Can glaucoma be treated without surgery?

Glaucoma poses a serious threat to the eye health of many individuals, and its treatment is also challenging. Most glaucoma patients may require surgery to effectively control the disease. However, this depends on the individual’s specific condition—glaucoma encompasses numerous subtypes. For example, patients with angle-closure glaucoma who exhibit only mild symptoms may not require surgery; in such cases, it is advisable to follow your ophthalmologist’s recommendations closely.

Can Glaucoma Be Treated Without Surgery?

Yes, glaucoma can be managed without surgery, as surgical intervention is not required for all types of glaucoma. Treatment strategies vary depending on the specific glaucoma subtype.

In acute angle-closure glaucoma, during an acute attack, topical miotic agents (e.g., pilocarpine) may be administered, combined with topical beta-adrenergic blockers and oral carbonic anhydrase inhibitors to rapidly lower intraocular pressure (IOP). Once IOP is controlled and ocular inflammation subsides, laser peripheral iridotomy or other anti-glaucoma surgical procedures may be considered.

For early-stage chronic angle-closure glaucoma, initial management may involve topical miotics or beta-adrenergic blockers. If medical therapy fails to adequately control IOP—or if significant optic nerve damage has already occurred—filtration surgery (e.g., trabeculectomy) becomes necessary.

In primary open-angle glaucoma, initial treatment typically involves topical medications. If pharmacologic therapy proves insufficient, surgical intervention may be pursued. When medications or laser treatments (e.g., selective laser trabeculoplasty) are ineffective, filtration surgery—most commonly trabeculectomy—is often recommended.

Glaucoma is relatively common in daily life. Its management primarily relies on medications and/or surgery, with surgical treatment generally offering favorable outcomes. The majority of patients are suitable candidates for surgery. However, for those with very mild disease, non-surgical management—including strict adherence to prescribed medications, consistent IOP monitoring, avoidance of prolonged熬夜 (sleep deprivation), and maintaining healthy lifestyle habits—may suffice to prevent disease progression.

We hope the above information is helpful to you. Wishing you good health and happiness!