Managing High Eye Pressure: Concerns and Treatment with Comfort Eye Drops

Q: Managing High Eye Pressure: Concerns and Treatment with Comfort Eye Drops

Hello Sunny： The sensations of tingling and dry mouth are side effects that should improve after some time, and there is no need to change medications for this reason. <br>According to the prescribing information, <COSOPT> should not be used during pregnancy. <br>However, there i

Kang Shu Mu Eye Drops for High Intraocular Pressure

Hello, Director Gao.
More than two weeks ago, I visited an ophthalmologist due to itchy eyes and was found to have elevated intraocular pressure in both eyes.
The first week's measurements were 28/27, and the second week's measurements were 29/29.
I am currently undergoing further tests at the hospital, so the cause of the high intraocular pressure is still unclear.
The clinic has prescribed Comfort Eye Drops.
I have a few questions for you, Director Gao:
1.
After using the eye drops, I experience a stinging sensation and a dry mouth.
I have only used them for one day.
If these issues persist, how many days should I wait before returning for a medication change?
2.
If I am planning to conceive (I am not pregnant yet), is it safe to use this medication? I find the instructions for this medication difficult to understand.
I would appreciate your response, thank you, Doctor.

sunny, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/12/04

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello Sunny: The sensations of tingling and dry mouth are side effects that should improve after some time, and there is no need to change medications for this reason.
According to the prescribing information, should not be used during pregnancy.
However, there is currently no adequate clinical data on the use of this medication in non-pregnant women.
Only animal studies are available.
Therefore, using it before pregnancy is not an issue, but its use during pregnancy should be evaluated.
Please inform your physician of your needs, and they can appropriately adjust your medication.
It is possible that elevated intraocular pressure is temporary; measuring it several times may show normal results, in which case ongoing medication may not be necessary.
The ophthalmology department at Puzi Hospital in Taiwan is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and Wednesday from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Online responses should only be used as a reference; if necessary, you should seek care at a medical facility.
I hope to have the opportunity to serve you.
Gao Pilin

Reply Date: 2019/12/04

More Info

Managing high eye pressure is a significant concern, especially when it comes to the potential implications for eye health, including the risk of glaucoma. Your recent experience with elevated eye pressure readings of 28/27 and 29/29 indicates that you are indeed facing a situation that requires careful monitoring and treatment. The prescription of Comfort Eye Drops (康舒目點眼液) is a common approach to managing elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), but it’s essential to address your concerns regarding side effects and the implications for future pregnancy.

Understanding High Eye Pressure
High eye pressure can arise from various factors, including overproduction of aqueous humor (the fluid in the eye) or insufficient drainage through the trabecular meshwork. Conditions such as eye strain, prolonged screen time, or even certain medications can contribute to elevated IOP. It’s crucial to identify the underlying cause, which may require further testing and evaluation by your eye care specialist.

Side Effects of Comfort Eye Drops
1. Stinging Sensation and Dry Mouth: The stinging sensation you experience after using the eye drops is not uncommon. Many eye drops can cause temporary discomfort as they are introduced to the eye. If the discomfort persists beyond a few days or worsens, it would be advisable to return to your eye doctor for a reassessment. They may consider switching you to a different formulation that may be better tolerated.

2. Duration Before Re-evaluation: If the side effects are mild and manageable, you might continue using the drops for a few days to see if your body adjusts. However, if you find the discomfort intolerable or if your symptoms do not improve, you should schedule a follow-up appointment sooner rather than later.

Considerations for Pregnancy
Regarding your concerns about pregnancy, it is essential to consult your eye care provider about the safety of using Comfort Eye Drops during pregnancy. Some medications can have implications for fetal development, and while many eye drops are considered safe, it’s crucial to have a personalized discussion with your doctor. They can provide you with the most accurate information based on the specific ingredients in the eye drops and your overall health status.

Recommendations
1. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a diary of your symptoms, including the intensity of the stinging sensation and any other side effects. This information will be valuable for your doctor during follow-up visits.

2. Regular Check-ups: Since your eye pressure readings are elevated, regular follow-ups are essential. Your doctor may want to monitor your IOP closely and adjust your treatment plan as necessary.

3. Lifestyle Adjustments: Consider implementing lifestyle changes that may help manage your eye pressure. This includes taking regular breaks from screens (the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds), staying hydrated, and ensuring you have adequate lighting while reading or working.

4. Discuss Future Plans: If you are considering pregnancy in the near future, discuss your plans with your eye doctor. They can help you create a management plan that considers both your eye health and your reproductive health.

Conclusion
Managing high eye pressure is a multifaceted approach that requires careful monitoring and adjustment of treatment strategies. Your experience with side effects from Comfort Eye Drops should be communicated with your healthcare provider, who can guide you on the best course of action. Additionally, discussing your plans for pregnancy will ensure that you receive the safest and most effective care tailored to your needs. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare team to achieve the best outcomes for your eye health.

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