Articles related to GLAUCOMA

Uncover valuable strategies to guide your patients in mitigating glaucoma lifestyle-associated risk factors. Smoking significantly increases the risk of developing glaucoma. It results in episcleral vasoconstriction, impaired optic nerve perfusion, irregular blood flow, and higher vasospasms. Additionally, smoking boosts the eye’s oxidative load while reducing circulating antioxidants. Consequently, it amplifies glaucoma risks, especially in genetically susceptible individuals and heavy smokers. Actionably, recommend smoking-cessation apps and credible online resources to patients. Stress too has a considerable impact on glaucoma progression. Chronic stress triggers organ dysfunctions, including eye maladies, elevates intraocular pressure (IOP), and may cause vascular dysregulation, leading to partial hypoxia and hypoglycaemia. Additionally, blood pressure extremes, particularly nocturnal hypotension, heighten the risk of primary open-angle glaucoma. Therefore, endorse stress-reducing relaxation techniques and positive communication strategies to your patients. Turning to stimulants, caffeine and alcohol are noteworthy. Studies suggest that patients genetically predisposed to higher IOP levels may experience amplified effects post-caffeine consumption. Similarly, alcohol consumption correlates with increased IOP, thus posing as another modifiable glaucoma risk factor. In these cases, propose moderation in caffeine and alcohol consumption, advocating for gradual reductions and environmental changes to facilitate better habits. In conclusion, considering factors beyond IOP levels — smoking, stress, and stimulants […]

This activity is designed for optometrists managing ocular hypertension, and participants should be more adept at the following after completing it:

Among non-adherent glaucoma patients surveyed in a cross-sectional study, the most prominent barries to adherence are forgetfulness, poor self-efficacy, beliefs/skepticism about glaucoma, poor knowledge of glaucoma, beliefs/skepticism about medication, difficulty with medication schedule, difficulty with drop administration, life stress, side effects of medication, cost, and mistrust of physician. Here are some pointers from three optometrists on how to deal with these and other issues.

Iyuzeh (latanoprost ophthalmic solution), which will be offered to eyecare professionals in the US in the second half of 2023, is made without any of the preservatives often included in topical ocular treatments, such as benzalkonium chloride (BAK). Iyuzeh has consistently lowered IOP and been shown to be tolerable in numerous trials in the US and Europe. In randomized, controlled clinical studies, Iyuzeh reduced IOP by 3–8 mmHg against 4–8 mmHg by Xalatan (latanoprost ophthalmic solution) at 0.005%, which is preserved with BAK, in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension and mean baseline IOP of 19–24 mmHg.