What is normal pressure?

There is no single pressure that we can call normal for all individuals. When treating glaucoma, we choose a target pressure, which we believe will protect and prevent further optic nerve damage. Presently, pressure of 21 is used in screening for glaucoma; however, any pressure needs to be interpreted in concert with the optic nerve appearance and visual field studies before a statement about a control of glaucoma pressure can be made.

What does my follow-up care involve?

Every glaucoma patient is different and we have several excellent advances today for managing this vision threatening disease. We will work together to find a treatment plan that lowers your pressure and prevents loss of vision from glaucoma.

Why do I have to be seen so often?

The treatment of glaucoma requires life long care to manage the disease. You will be followed regularly in my office to monitor your treatment insuring the prevention of vision loss.

How long should I wait between drops?

We recommend that patients wait 3 to 5 minutes between drops. Techniques to reduce the amount of drop medication that enters through the nasolacrimal duct system, nose and throat can be reduced by closing eyelids for 3 minutes following each instillation.

Will taking "Over the Counter" medications affect my eye pressure?

Many sinus and cold medication have a warning on the label about using in the presence of diagnosed glaucoma. If you have questions regarding any of these medications please call our office.