Pigmentary Glaucoma Treatment

Pigmentary glaucoma is a less common form of glaucoma. Unlike other types that typically strike older adults, pigmentary glaucoma can occur in middle-aged and young adults. It results when portions of pigment move from the back of the iris into the aqueous humor, the fluid that fills the front of the eye. They get stuck in drainage canals within the eye, causing fluid build up; this raises pressure within the eye, resulting in glaucoma. Treatments are available to you, and your doctor can determine the most appropriate ones for your particular situation.

Treatment Goals

• Treatment aims to relieve pressure in the eye. This is accomplished by either encouraging better flow of the aqueous humor and/ or reducing its production. Pigmentary glaucoma cannot be completely cured and present damage cannot be reversed. Treatment and regular check-ups can prevent or slow vision loss.

Exercise and Pigmentary Glaucoma

• Vigorous exercise contributes to extra pigment breaking away from the iris. This can exacerbate eye drainage problems. You should talk to your doctor about how to maintain fitness without aggravating your condition. He can guide you in determining safe forms of exercise.

Medications

• Eye drops are a primary treatment for pigmentary glaucoma. They relieve eye pressure by optimizing the amount of aqueous humor in the eye.

  Beta blocker eye drops lessen the formation of fluid. Commonly prescribed drops include Betagan, Betimol, Timoptic, Betoptic and OptiPranolol. Possible side effects ar trouble breathing, hair loss, drop in blood pressure, impotence, fatigue, weakness, memory loss and depression. If you have asthma, bronchitis, emphysema or diabetes, these treatments are not suitable.

  Other eye drops for pigmentary glaucoma contain compounds similar to prostaglandin, which plays a role in reducing eye pressure. They include Xalatan, Lumigan and Travatan. You might experience side effects such as redness and stinging in the eyes, darkening of the iris, discoloration of eyelid skin and blurred vision.

  Other possible treatments are oral drugs called miotics. They shrink the pupil and prevent the iris from moving against fibers in the lens; keeping the iris in place prevents the release of pigment. Commonly prescribed miotics for pigmentary glaucoma include Pilocar and Ocusert

Procedures

• Certain laser procedures might be of benefit. Laser trabeculoplasty opens up blocked drainage canals, allowing for easier removal of aqueous fluid. Laser iridotomy involves making a small hole in the iris, which moves it away from the lens. This prevents friction that causes the pigment to break away from this iris.

Other Suggestions

• Drink fluids in small amounts throughout the day. Drinking the equivalent of 1 quart of liquids in a short time can raise eye pressure.

  The University of Maryland suggests the following natural supplements might be of benefit. Lutein and zeaxathin are two antioxidants known to promote eye health. Take 1 to 6 mg of lutein daily and 1 to 10 mg of zeaxanthin daily. These antioxidants are also abundant in red, yellow and orange fruits and vegetables. The herb bilberry supports vision health; take 80 mg three times a day. Ask your doctor before taking natural supplements.