As we begin Spring allergy season, another season is also starting…allergy medication commercial season. Have you ever wondered why the commercials say, “consult your doctor before taking this medication if you have glaucoma”?
The truth is that antihistamines (allergy medications) do not pose a risk for most people with glaucoma. The most common type of glaucoma is called “open-angle glaucoma” which means that the “drain” inside of the eye is open but there is still a problem with eye pressure. This type of glaucoma is not affected by allergy medications.
A less common type of glaucoma is called “narrow-angle glaucoma”. This means that the “drain” of the eye is partially closed off and therefore it is harder for fluid to exit the eye. Antihistamine medications may cause the drain to actually close off which in turn causes the eye pressure to increase dramatically. This “angle closure” usually accompanied by significant pain and blurred vision.
The good news is that narrow angle glaucoma can be detected with a comprehensive eye health examination.
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