Glaucoma

But don’t worry – with the right treatment and regular check-ups, glaucoma can be managed effectively.

Why are eyedrops Important?

Eyedrops are the most common treatment for glaucoma, and they work by lowering the pressure in your eye. This helps protect your optic nerve from further damage.

Here’s what you need to know about using your eyedrops:

• Consistency is key: You’ll need to use your eyedrops every day, exactly as prescribed.
• How to use them: Always wash your hands before applying drops. Tilt your head back, pull down your lower eyelid, and gently squeeze a drop into the pocket without touching your eye. Close your eyes for a minute or two after using the drop.
• Missed a dose? Don’t worry if you forget a dose – juse use it as soon as you remember, but don’t double up on doses.
• Why they matter: Even if you don’t feel any symptoms, the pressure in your eye can still be damaging your vision. REgular useof the drops helps to prevent this.

The importance of regular check-ups

Glaucoma is a condition that needs constant monitoring. Regular check-ups help us ensure that your treatment is working effectively and we can make any adjustments if needed.

Initial check-ups:

• One month after starting treatment: This is an important check to see if the eyedrops are lowering your eye pressure and to ensure you’re not experiencing any side effects.

Follow up schedule:

• Every four months thereafter: To make sure your eyes are stable at this lower eye pressure.
• After that, we will continue to monitor your eye pressure and check if your vision is stable. Visits will be spread further apart once we are confident everything is stable. These visits are crucial to catching any changes early.

Sometimes, additional testing, like visual field tests or scans of the optic nerve, will be needed to track the progression of glaucoma.

Long Term Management

Glaucoma is a lifelong condition, meaning it doesn’t go away. But with proper care, you can maintain good vision for many years. Keeping up with your eye drop regimen and attending regular check-ups is teh best way to protect your sight.

Key points to remember

• Use your eyedrops every day, as prescribed
• Attend your regular check-ups: first at one month, then every four months
• Don’t skip appointments, even if your vision feels fine. Glaucoma can be “silent” without symptoms, but still cause damage.

Need help?

If you have any questions about using your drops, or concerns about your vision, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We also recommend you join the Glaucoma NZ community today.

Our optometrists are here to help you protect your vision

Stay positive and proactive. With good treatment and follow-up, glaucoma can be managed, allowing you to maintain a good quality of life.

If you are concerned about your eye health, contact us today to make an appointment to come and see our friendly team of optometrists in either Lower Hutt or Johnsonville, Wellington.