Are there effective treatments for glaucoma?
Yes. There are many different types of medications (in eye drops or pills) that are used to treat glaucoma. Typically, your doctor will start you on an eye drop formula. The medications work two ways: Some decrease how much fluid is produced in the eye; others help the fluid flow out better. Many people can preserve their vision if they take their medications as scheduled and visit their doctor regularly. Note: Medications for glaucoma — even eye drops — can affect the entire body, so you should alert all of your doctors that you are taking them. In some people, however, drugs alone do not control the eye pressure, and surgery needs to be performed. One type of surgery uses a laser — called trabeculoplasty — to improve the flow of fluids out of the eye. This can be done in your doctor’s office. There are also several conventional surgeries — the most common is called trabeculectomy — in which your doctor creates a new drainage path in the eye, under the eyelid. This surgery must
