Normal Pressure Glaucoma

[AnnieJo41]

I have Normal Pressure Glaucoma. The pressure reading for both eyes is 13. The Consultant has prescribed Travaprost drops and I have been on those for 18 months and my pressure is still 13 for both eyes. Is there any other treatment for Normal Pressure Glaucoma? Thanks.

[Trish_GlaucomaUK Partner]

Hello. A consultant can try up to 3-4 different drops to help reduce the eye pressure, but if this is not successful in reducing it to a level to keep it from progressing, then there are other treatments such as laser or surgery.

Even though you eye pressure has not changed, it may be showing as stable with no progression. If this is the case, your consultant will be happy that this eye pressure is ok for you. However, you will be monitored closely and if signs of progression appear the consultant will address this and review your treatment.

[PBX142]

Hi AnnieJo, if your consultant considers your glaucoma isn't progressing, ie your eye condition is stable, then presumably that is why they will keep you on those drops, because staying at that pressure works for you. If however your glaucoma is progressing, then the consultant should be trying to lower your pressures further by changing your drops, adding to them or using laser or surgery. I have NTG and my pressures are 12-14. I'd feel more secure if they were 10 but because my eyes are currently stable, the consultant is happy to keep things as they are. Hope this helps.

[Piggy-in-the-middle]

The consultant who gave an online session for Glaucoma UK suggested gingko biloba to improve blood circulation, as well as emphasising the importance of good diet and keeping fit. I’m hoping for the best too!

[Laura7777]

Hello AnnieJo

I too have NTG and have done for many years. As others have said, if your consultant is happy that your condition is stable with pressures at 13 then he is unlikely to change your drops or take any other action.

However, if at any time your pressures rise, or become unstable, then you will be considered for one of the procedures mentioned by Trish above and/or given different or additional drops.

I have had NTG for over 35 years and in that time, when it has been unstable I had trabeculectomies and a mixture of drops to lower and control the pressures. These interventions have been successful.

The ideal pressure for each person can be different. In my case, trial and error established that I need to keep my pressures below 12(max) and ideally below 10. To achieve this I take 3 drops (Levbunolol, Brimonidine and Roclanda) and Diamox capsules 2 x 250mgSR a day. Other people with NTG have a different target pressure and it might help you to know what your consultant thinks your target should be. Perhaps it would be worth asking him/her at your next appointment.

The short answer to your question is yes, there are other drops and treatments for NTG but only your consultant can tell you why he has adopted the management plan he has. Ask him when you next see him but remember that everyone is different and the treatments we have are different to reflect that.

Good Luck and Best Wishes