In the treatment of eye pressure, medications usually prevent the progression of the disease by reducing intraocular pressure, whereas laser treatment aims to decrease pressure by increasing the circulation of the fluid within the eye. These treatment methods can be effective in controlling eye pressure and preventing vision loss.
What is Eye Pressure?
Eye pressure is a condition that occurs when the fluid within the eye is at a higher pressure than it should be. This pressure can damage the optic nerve and lead to vision loss.
The most common type of eye pressure is open-angle glaucoma, which typically progresses without symptoms and is often detected late. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial, so regular eye examinations should be conducted. Treatment generally involves eye drops, medications, or sometimes surgical intervention.
How is Eye Pressure Diagnosed?
Glaucoma can be diagnosed with a detailed eye examination conducted by a specialist. The most common tests used in the diagnosis of the disease include tonometry, visual field test, ophthalmoscopy, and pachymetry test.
-
Tonometry
Tonometry is a method that allows the measurement of intraocular pressure. High intraocular pressure can increase the risk of glaucoma. The test helps determine the pressure level within the eye, playing a role in the diagnosis process.
-
Visual Field Test
The visual field test is used to assess whether glaucoma has caused narrowing of the visual field. As glaucoma progresses, the patient may notice dark spots on the periphery or center.
-
Ophthalmoscopy
Ophthalmoscopy is a technique that allows for the structural examination of the optic nerve. Glaucoma is often associated with optic nerve damage, and ophthalmoscopy can be used to monitor the existence and progression of the damage.
-
Pachymetry Test
The pachymetry test helps interpret intraocular pressure by measuring corneal thickness. Corneal thickness can affect intraocular pressure readings if it is thinner or thicker.
After diagnosis, the treatment process can be initiated, and the progression of glaucoma can be prevented. Regular check-ups and appropriate treatment in the early stages can prevent the progression of vision loss and control the disease.
Medication for Eye Pressure Treatment: Drops and Tablets
The most common method used in eye pressure treatment is medication. Eye pressure drops aimed at reducing intraocular pressure are the first choice in the early stages of the disease.
How Do Eye Pressure Drops Work?
The effects of eye pressure drops on eye health are quite significant. These drops typically work in two ways. First, some drops help reduce eye pressure by decreasing the production of fluid within the eye. If excess fluid is produced, it can increase intraocular pressure, which can damage the optic nerve. Controlling fluid production can help lower eye pressure.
The other effect is to make it easier for the fluid within the eye to be expelled. In this way, by facilitating the drainage of accumulated fluid in the eye, pressure can be reduced. Some drops both reduce fluid production and facilitate its expulsion, thus supporting the control of pressure through multiple mechanisms.
These drops used in chronic eye diseases like glaucoma should be applied under the control of a doctor. The most suitable treatment method and drop selection should be determined by the doctor for each patient. For eye pressure drops to be effective, regular usage and monitoring are required.
What are the Side Effects of Eye Pressure Drops?
Like all medications, eye pressure drops may have some side effects, including:
-
Burning, stinging, redness in the eyes
-
Temporary blurred vision
-
Watery eyes
If side effects occur, the treatment should be reviewed under the doctor's supervision.
How is Laser Eye Pressure Treatment Performed?
Laser treatments for eye pressure provide an alternative for patients who do not respond to medication treatment and cannot regularly use drops. The aim of laser treatment is to reduce intraocular pressure by facilitating the outflow of the fluid inside the eye (aqueous humor).
SLT (Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty)
SLT is one of the popular laser treatment methods today. In this technique, low-energy laser beams are applied to the region called the trabecular meshwork, which facilitates the drainage of fluid inside the eye. The procedure triggers the regeneration of cells within the eye, ensuring the effective flow of fluid.
One of the advantages of the treatment is that it is painless. Additionally, the procedure is extremely quick and can be completed in minutes. The effects of SLT can vary from person to person but generally last between 1-3 years. However, if necessary, it can be repeated, thereby helping patients preserve their vision capabilities.
ALT (Argon Laser Trabeculoplasty)
ALT was frequently preferred before SLT emerged. In this method, a high-energy argon laser beam is used to modify the structure of the trabecular meshwork within the eye. Modifying the trabecular meshwork in this manner facilitates more effective drainage of the fluid within the eye, thus helping reduce intraocular pressure.
The procedure takes approximately 10-15 minutes and is completed relatively quickly. Another advantage of ALT is that it creates more permanent tissue changes in the area it is applied. It is planned as a one-time intervention and does not require repetition.
In some cases, ALT has been seen as the first treatment option among patients. For patients who do not respond to SLT or other laser treatments, or in different situations, ALT can be an alternative. In this scenario, doctors decide on the appropriate treatment based on the patient's condition and needs.
Natural Supportive Methods: Are They Really Effective?
While natural solutions for eye pressure are not a primary treatment method, they can be used as a supplement if approved by a healthcare professional. Natural solutions aim to support eye health through specific lifestyle changes.
First and foremost, the consumption of substances like salt and caffeine should be reduced. High salt intake can raise blood pressure and thereby affect eye pressure. Similarly, drinks high in caffeine may increase intraocular pressure.
Nutrition plays a crucial role in the management of eye pressure. Green leafy vegetables and antioxidants are beneficial for eye health. For instance, antioxidants such as lutein and zeaxanthin found in green leafy vegetables like spinach have protective effects on eye health.
Eye exercises and activities that reduce stress can also alleviate visual discomfort. Meditation techniques like yoga or eye massages can strengthen and relax the eye muscles. These exercises also support eye health by enhancing circulation.
The negative effects of smoking and alcohol on eye pressure are well known. Toxins in cigarette smoke can constrict blood vessels in the eye and can lead to retinal damage. Alcohol can disrupt the body's fluid balance and thus affect intraocular pressure.
In conclusion, natural methods do not replace the treatment of eye pressure but can act as a supplement through lifestyle modifications. In any case, it is necessary to consult a doctor before implementing these suggestions.
Can People with Eye Pressure Use Lenses?
It is possible for people with eye pressure to use contact lenses. However, this should be done while paying attention to some important considerations.
It is important to remember that drops used in the treatment of eye pressure may affect the structure of the lens and cause blurriness. Therefore, it should always be checked whether the drops recommended by the doctor are compatible with lens use.
Careful attention must be paid to the timing of drop usage before and after lens application. It is extremely important to adhere to the time intervals specified by the doctor to minimize the adverse effects of drops on the lens.
Regular doctor check-ups are necessary during prolonged lens use. Close monitoring of eye health in the presence of eye pressure is crucial to minimizing potential risks.
It should be remembered that the use of lenses requires personalized assessment due to the differences in each individual's eye structure and eye pressure condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is eye pressure detected?
Eye pressure is a sneaky disease that occurs with an increase in intraocular pressure and progresses without symptoms. Therefore, its detection involves measurements of eye pressure (tonometry), visual field tests, optic nerve evaluation, and advanced imaging methods such as OCT. Eye pressure can only be detected at an early stage through regular eye examinations.
How is laser treatment for eye pressure performed?
In laser treatment, laser is applied to the trabecular meshwork to increase the outflow of fluid from the eye. Common methods are SLT and Argon Laser Trabeculoplasty (ALT), both are generally painless and quick procedures.
Are natural solutions for eye pressure effective?
Natural solutions for eye pressure are limited to lifestyle changes such as reducing salt intake, following an antioxidant-rich diet, and controlling stress. These methods are not curative but may be supportive with a physician's recommendation.
What are the side effects of eye pressure drops?
Eye pressure drops may cause local effects in some patients, such as burning, stinging, redness, or temporary visual blurriness. Some drops might have systemic effects on heart rhythm or blood pressure; regular doctor monitoring is essential.