Question
What should elderly patients with glaucoma do?
Answer
Glaucoma is an eye disease caused by increased intraocular pressure, leading to damage to the optic nerve. For elderly patients with glaucoma, the primary concern is to control the intraocular pressure to protect the optic nerve. Medication, surgery, or other therapies can be used to lower the intraocular pressure. Additionally, regular ophthalmic examinations should be conducted to detect any changes in the condition early. Regarding wearing reading glasses, if it is due to presbyopia (age-related farsightedness), they can be worn. However, wearing reading glasses does not treat or alleviate the symptoms of glaucoma. As for surgical treatment for glaucoma, it is feasible under certain circumstances, such as when medication fails to effectively control the intraocular pressure. However, the indications and risks of surgery should be discussed in detail with an ophthalmologist. From a traditional Chinese medicine perspective, glaucoma is believed to be caused by blockages in meridians due to factors like wind, fire, phlegm, and depression, leading to a disorder of Qi and blood. The focus of treatment is on eliminating the cause, regulating Qi and blood, and alleviating symptoms. In summary, the treatment for glaucoma should be based on an individual’s condition and the advice of a doctor.