Table of contents:
- Regular use of steroid eye drops increases the risk of glaucoma
- It is important to read the information contained in the drops packaging
Many people immediately put eye drops that are sold freely in pharmacies to treat red eyes, without first consulting a doctor. Maybe you are one of them too. In fact, the use of eye medication should not be arbitrary. Careless use of eye drops can increase the risk of glaucoma. This risk is especially high for steroid eye drops. Do not believe? Find out the full review in this article.
Regular use of steroid eye drops increases the risk of glaucoma
Glaucoma is damage to the nerves of the eye that causes vision problems and blindness. Generally, glaucoma is caused by high pressure in the eyeball.
Steroid eye medication used daily and over a long period of time increases the build-up of glycosaminoglycan, the main structural component of the cartilage found in the cornea. This buildup of glycosaminoglycans will block the flow of fluid in the eye.
In addition, steroid eye medication will also increase protein production in the trabecular meshwork (ducts in the eye) which can then block the flow of fluid in the eye. Because the flow of fluid in the eye is blocked due to a blockage, it causes the pressure in the eyeball to increase.
This increase in pressure in the eyeball will cause damage to the optic nerve that connects vision to the brain. Finally, over time the area of view will narrow, causing glaucoma. If this condition is left for too long, it can even lead to blindness.
Apart from glaucoma, long-term use of eye drops containing steroids can also cause the lens to become cloudy or in medical parlance it is called cataracts.
It is important to read the information contained in the drops packaging
The use of steroid eye drops should be redeemed by a doctor's prescription. But, in fact, this type of eye medication is sold freely in pharmacies and drug stores. To find out whether the eye drops you are using contain steroids or not, you can read the ingredients of the drugs listed on the package. Usually, the types of steroids can be found in the uterus: dexamethasone, fluorometholone, and prednisolone.
Basically eye drops that can be used are only drugs with mild ingredients, such as artificial tears or natural tears. If you complain of red eye condition accompanied by pain, pain, and watering, you should check with an eye doctor for more appropriate treatment.
Using eye drops that are sold on the market can indeed be an easy solution. However, there are a number of things you need to pay attention to, for example, when the eye drops that are used do not have a soothing effect. Or, your eye condition will worsen or other eye problems arise. If you have this, immediately stop using the eye drops and visit an ophthalmologist. Inform your doctor about eye drop products.
Remember, the eye is an important organ that must be kept healthy as well as clean. Use eye drops as needed. For example, if there is a minor disturbance. Immediately consult an ophthalmologist if your condition does not improve immediately or other symptoms occur.
