As a practicing ophthalmologist or someone studying to become one, you’re likely familiar with the symptoms of dry eyes and glaucoma. But did you know these conditions can be particularly difficult to treat when they occur together? Keep reading to understand the double trouble of dry eyes and glaucoma and how to treat these conditions in a patient.

Causes of Dry Eye and Glaucoma

Glaucoma and dry eye share several causes, which is why patients may commonly have symptoms of both. Taking certain medications may cause dry eyes and glaucoma. Another common cause of both is having previous eye injuries or surgeries—these events can cause elevated pressure inside the eye and cause symptoms of dry eye as well. Another cause that links both dry eye and glaucoma is using eye drops as treatment for glaucoma over a long period of time. This is a frustrating cause because using eye drops is a common treatment method for glaucoma, yet it could worsen your dry eye symptoms.

Challenges of Having Dry Eye and Glaucoma

Dry eye syndrome and glaucoma are both chronic eye conditions which need regular treatment. Some treatments for one, such as the eyedrops for glaucoma, may not be compatible with the other. While dry eye doesn’t outright cause glaucoma, these two conditions often occur together for many patients. This requires more treatment methods that may not always agree with each other. While dry eye syndrome may show more symptoms in a patient, doctors and surgeons will recommend first treating glaucoma, as it can be more serious and lead to vision loss. Some patients may have a challenging time keeping up with multiple medications and treatments.

How To Treat Dry Eye and Glaucoma

Fortunately, some treatments for dry eyes can also help improve glaucoma symptoms. A doctor may recommend modifying certain treatments and medications when a patient suffers from both glaucoma and dry eyes. Doctors may recommend a combination of treatments such as eye drops, creams, gels, and even surgeries. However, because eye surgery can increase glaucoma risk, doctors will approach this route with caution. Each patient will respond to each treatment differently, so carefully weigh these options when it comes to treating each individual case.

Now you can better understand the double trouble of dry eyes and glaucoma symptoms in patients. When treating a patient with dry eyes and glaucoma, it’s important to have all the right ophthalmic supplies available. Make sure you have everything you need to test eye pressure, such as tonometry tools and more, which you can find right here at Automated Ophthalmics Inc.