Glaucoma and Medications: Understanding the Risks and Precautions
Did you know that certain medications can have an impact on glaucoma? If you're taking medications for other conditions and have concerns about their effects on your eyes, you're in the right place. At Cockrell Eye Care, we understand the importance of managing glaucoma effectively while considering your medications. We'll delve into the potential risks and precautions associated with medications and glaucoma. Get ready to discover how to maintain your eye health and overall well-being.
Medications and Glaucoma: What You Should Know
Glaucoma comes in different forms, with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) being the most common. If you have POAG, you can generally take cold and allergy medications without adverse effects. However, it's crucial to be aware that these medications can cause pupil dilation, potentially leading to acute angle-closure glaucoma in individuals with narrow angles. Undiagnosed patients with anatomically narrow angles may also experience acute angle-closure glaucoma if they unknowingly take these medications. It's essential to have a comprehensive eye and vision health evaluation to determine your risk levels and ensure optimal eye health. If you already have glaucoma, always consult your eye doctor before taking any medications with warnings related to your condition.
Steroids or Cortisone Products: Balancing Benefits and Risks
Steroids control inflammation and swelling in various healthcare scenarios, including eye-related issues. However, it's important to exercise caution when using steroids as they can potentially increase eye pressure and lead to open-angle glaucoma if misused or without proper supervision. Whether you're using topical eye drops, oral medications, nasal sprays, or inhalants containing steroids, it's advisable to consult your optometrist if you've been using them for more than ten days. Steroid-induced glaucoma occurs when the drainage tissue in the eyes becomes clogged, causing a buildup of proteins that obstruct proper fluid drainage. Your optometrist will evaluate your eye pressure and provide guidance based on your situation.
Other Medications: An Overview of Potential Risks
Drug-induced glaucoma can occur through two primary mechanisms: open-angle glaucoma, often associated with steroids, and closed-angle glaucoma caused by pupillary dilation. Various systemic conditions, such as asthma, depression, migraines, and Parkinson's disease, may require medications that induce pupillary dilation, putting susceptible patients at risk of acute angle-closure glaucoma. Additionally, dietary supplements suppressing appetite can lead to acute angle-closure glaucoma due to pupillary dilation. A notable medication, Topamax or topiramate, used for epilepsy and migraine treatment, can potentially trigger acute glaucoma attacks, with most cases occurring within the first six months of use. If you have concerns about ocular side effects from prescription or over-the-counter medications, please reach out to Cockrell Eye Care for expert guidance.
Contact Cockrell Eyecare Center in Stillwater at 405-372-1715 or to learn more about how we can assist you in managing your eye health.