A patient with glaucoma asks why eye drops must continue when vision seems unchanged. Which explanation is appropriate?
- AThe drops will restore vision that has already been lost
- BDrops can stop once eye pressure has been normal for a month
- CThe drops control pressure to limit further optic nerve damage
- DThe drops are mainly needed during episodes of eye pain
Show answer and explanations
Answer
C
A
Glaucomatous optic nerve damage is not reversed by treatment.
B
Normal pressure reflects the drops working; stopping them allows pressure to rise again.
C
Open-angle glaucoma is often silent; lifelong pressure control slows optic nerve damage.
D
Most glaucoma is painless, so symptoms are not a guide to dosing.