Once glaucoma has been diagnosed, treatment should begin as soon as possible to help minimize the risk of permanent vision loss. There is no cure for glaucoma, so treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing further damage from occurring. Most cases of glaucoma can be treated with eye drops, laser surgery or microsurgery. The best treatment for your individual case depends on the type and severity of the disease and can be discussed with your doctor.

• Eye drops are used to reduce fluid production in the front of the eye or to help drain excess fluid, but can lead to redness, stinging, irritation or blurry vision. Patients should tell their doctor about any drug reactions to minimize the risk of side effects.
• Laser surgery for glaucoma aims to increase the outflow of fluid from the eye or eliminate fluid blockages (such as laser trabeculoplasty, iridotomy and cyclophotocoagulation.)
• Cataract patients that also have mild to moderate open-angle glaucoma may benefit from a procedure called iStent® Trabecular Micro-Bypass. During cataract surgery, the iStent is placed into the eye to improve the outflow of aqueous humor from the eye and control eye pressure. This tiny device is invisible and comfortable and may reduce your dependence on prescription eye drops to control glaucoma.