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In open-angle glaucoma, the iridocorneal angle remains open, but the trabecular meshwork becomes stiff, slowing down the outflow of aqueous humor. This causes a buildup of aqueous humor in the anterior chamber, leading to a sudden increase in intraocular pressure. The treatment for open-angle glaucoma focuses on reducing the elevated intraocular pressure by either decreasing the secretion of aqueous humor or increasing its outflow.
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Angle Closure Glaucoma: Treatment

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Glaucoma: Overview

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 13, 2026

Ultrasound Cyclo Plasty in Eyes with Glaucoma

Ultrasound Cyclo Plasty in Eyes with Glaucoma

Published on: January 26, 2018

[Self-medication with local anaesthetics by glaucoma patients using teletonometry].

G Schäffner¹, S Antal, C Jürgens

¹Klinik und Poliklinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Greifswald der Ernst-Moritz-Arndt-Universität, AöR, Greifswald.

Der Ophthalmologe : Zeitschrift Der Deutschen Ophthalmologischen Gesellschaft

|August 4, 2007

Summary

Glaucoma patients can safely self-administer topical anesthetics for self-tonometry, with most experiencing only minor, temporary side effects. Regular ophthalmological check-ups are crucial for safe home use of these eye drops.

Related Experiment Videos

Last Updated: Jul 13, 2026

Ultrasound Cyclo Plasty in Eyes with Glaucoma

Ultrasound Cyclo Plasty in Eyes with Glaucoma

Published on: January 26, 2018

Area of Science:

Ophthalmology
Clinical Pharmacology

Background:

Self-tonometry is increasingly important for glaucoma management.
Home application of topical anesthetics is necessary for contact self-tonometry.
Concerns exist regarding the safety of patient self-medication with local anesthetics.

Purpose of the Study:

To evaluate the local tolerability of topical anesthetics used by glaucoma patients during self-tonometry.
To assess the safety and side effect profile of proparacaine eyedrops in a home-use setting.

Main Methods:

A prospective clinical study involving 100 glaucoma patients over 1 year.
Patients performed self-tonometry for at least 6 months using a modified tonometer.
Proparacaine-HCl 0.5% eyedrops were self-administered before each measurement, with tolerability assessed via a standardized questionnaire and visual analogue scales.

Main Results:

Data from 83 patients showed good tolerability; only two experienced allergic reactions requiring a change in anesthetic.
Most participants (91.5%) reported subjective symptoms of mild intensity.
Minor conjunctival hyperemia was the most frequent side effect, typically resolving within 1 hour.

Conclusions:

Self-medication with topical anesthetics for self-tonometry on undamaged ocular surfaces is generally safe for glaucoma patients.
The practice requires adherence to routine ophthalmological examinations and recommendations.
Integrating self-tonometry into modern glaucoma management requires comprehensive care concepts.