Glaucoma is a condition that is characterized by high fluid pressure in the eye. The fluid inside the eye is called aqueous humor. It is produced by the eye and also drains from the eye. The pressure exerted by this fluid can build up if the eye produces too much or if there is inadequate drainage from the eye. The pressure builds and can lead to damage of the optic nerve. According to the Foundation of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness. Eye drops can be used to reduce the pressure in the eye. Some eye drops slow the production of aqueous humor. Other eye drops help the eye to drain aqueous humor. The eye drops used to treat glaucoma can have side effects.
Prostaglandin Analogs
These eye drops work to help drain aqueous humor. The side effects of prostaglandin analogs include redness and irritation of the eye. There can be an increase in the thickness of eyelashes. Also, the number of eyelashes can increase. There can be flu-like symptoms and pain in joints. The iris can darken as a result of using these eye drops. The retina can swell, causing blurring of vision.
Beta Blockers
Eye drops in this classification help reduce the production of aqueous humor. The side effects of beta-blocker eye drops include problems with breathing, memory loss, weakness, hair loss, fatigue, impotence and low blood pressure.
Miotics
These eye drops help with the drainage of aqueous humor from the eye. Possible side effects of miotic eye drops include pain in or around the eye, including the eyebrow. Vision can become dim or blurred. These eye drops can also cause headaches and allergic reactions as side effects. A stuffy nose can be a side effect as well an increase in sweating. Retinal detachment is a rare side effect. Medical attention should be sought if there are flashing lights or dark floating spots in the field of vision.
Epinephrine Compounds
These eye drops help to drain aqueous humor from the eye. The potential side effects of eye drops with epinephrine compounds include allergic reactions, heart palpitations, headaches, an increase in blood pressure, reddening of the eye and anxiety.
Alpha Agonists
These eye drops help to drain aqueous humor and to slow its production. The possible side effects include reddening of the eye. The eye can also become swollen and itchy. Fatigue, dry mouth and allergic reactions are other possible side effects.
Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors
These eye drops help reduce the production of aqueous humor. Side effects include an increase in the frequency of urination. There can also be a tingling sensation in the toes and fingertips.
