Introduction

 

Chalazion and glaucoma may appear to be unrelated conditions, but scientific research reveals a strong connection: Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD).

Studies show that up to 82% of glaucoma patients present with obstruction or reduced function of the Meibomian glands, leading to inflammation, dry eye, and an increased risk of chalazion.

The Impact of Antiglaucoma Eye Drops on the Ocular Surface

Long-term use of glaucoma medications (pilocarpine, β-blockers, prostaglandins, carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, α2-agonists) may cause:

  • Irritation and redness
  • Tearing and itching
  • Reduced tear film quality
  • Dysfunction or obstruction of the Meibomian glands

Preservatives such as benzalkonium chloride (BAK) further worsen the situation, increasing inflammation and oxidative stress.

Specific Glaucoma Medications and Side Effects – The Role of Dermophthalmology

Prostaglandins

  • Xalatan (latanoprost)
  • Lumigan (bimatoprost)
  • Travatan (travoprost)

Side effects: irritation, redness, eyelash darkening.

Solution: Ophthalmogen Gel protects the eyelids from inflammation, while Ophthalmogen Spray reduces irritation and hydrates.

Beta-blockers

  • Timoptic (timolol)
  • Betoptic (betaxolol)

Side effects: ξηροφθαλμία, κόπωση, βρογχόσπασμος.

Solution: Thermotherapy with Ophthalmogen EYE10 maintains Meibomian gland function, reducing dry eye symptoms.

Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors

  • Trusopt (dorzolamide)
  • Azopt (brinzolamide)

Side effects: stinging, allergy, foreign body sensation.

Solution: Ophthalmogen Gel nightly massage reduces inflammation and prevents secondary infections.

A-2 Adrenergic Agonists

  • Alphagan (brimonidine)

Side effects: αλλεργία, ξηρότητα, κόκκινα μάτια.

Solution: Ophthalmogen Spray soothes, hydrates, and reduces redness.

Combination Drops

  • Cosopt (dorzolamide + timolol)
  • Combigan (brimonidine + timolol)
  • Ganfort (bimatoprost + timolol)

Side effects: significant dryness, blepharitis, fatigue.

Solution: The full Ophthalmogen protocol (EYE10 + Gel + Spray) prevents blepharitis and improves treatment tolerability.

Pilocarpine

  • IsoptoCarpine (pilocarpine) – an older drug reintroduced for presbyopia.

Side effects: ciliary spasm, headache, eyelid inflammation.

Solution: The combination of Ophthalmogen Gel + Spray reduces inflammation and provides daily relief.

Blood Pressure and Eye Pressure – Their Interaction in Glaucoma

Intraocular pressure (IOP) is not the only risk factor in glaucoma. Systemic blood pressure (BP) also plays a key role, as it affects optic nerve perfusion:


• Hypertension: vascular damage, worsening glaucoma progression.
• Hypotension (especially nocturnal): reduced optic nerve blood flow, higher risk of damage.

Common systemic medications glaucoma patients often take


• ACE inhibitors (π.χ. perindopril)
• β-blockers (atenolol, nebivolol)
• Calcium channel blockers (amlodipine)
• Diuretics (indapamide)

Collaboration between ophthalmologist and cardiologist is essential for proper balance.

Supportive Products for Glaucoma Patients

  • Nutritional supplements for the optic nerve and retina:

– Allvita Eyes, Macushield, MacuSave (antioxidants & vitamins for glaucoma and macular degeneration)

– CoQ10 and Omega-3 fatty acids (neuroprotection & vascular health) Neuroprotection and microcirculation are crucial for glaucoma patients, as they help reduce oxidative stress and support the health of the optic nerve. Widely recommended supplements include Solgar CoQ10, Doctor’s Best CoQ10, Now Foods CoQ10, Lamberts CoQ10, Nordic Naturals Omega-3, Solgar Omega-3 Fish Oil, Miami MorEPA, Noe Foods Omega-3, Lamberts Omega-3. These supplements can be incorporated into a comprehensive glaucoma care regimen, complementing medical therapy and strengthening optic nerve protection.

  • Artificial tears without preservatives (VisionluxPlus, VisionluxPlusDUO, ThealozDUO, Hyabak, Systane, NavitaePlus)
  • Natural anti-inflammatory drops (NaviInfla) with herbal extracts
  • Eyelid hygiene products: OphthalmogenGel, Spray, EYE10,
  • Eyelid Cleansing: Daily eyelid wash Naviblef Daily Care foal and lukewarm water
  • . Refreshing sprays Flora Vision Spray (1οartificial tears in spray)

The Role of the Ophthalmogen Series in Therapy Compliance

The Ophthalmogen series acts as a compensatory ally against side effects:

  • EYE10: 40°C thermotherapy, maintaining healthy Meibomian glands
  • Gel: reduces Demodex, hydrates, and protects the eyelids.
  • Spray: provides daily disinfection/hydration and comfort of the eyelids/eyelashes during the day without irritation.

With regular use, patients experience fewer symptoms and better compliance, ensuring their glaucoma therapy remains effective long term.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can glaucoma eye drops cause chalazion?

Yes. Long-term use of drops may disrupt Meibomian gland function, increasing the risk of chalazion.

How does thermotherapy help?

40°C thermotherapy prevents gland blockage and reduces inflammation.

Which products Ophthalmogen products are suitable for glaucoma patients?

  • EYE10 for thermotherapy
  • Gel for nightly massage
  • Spray for disinfection & hydration

 

Dermophthalmology is an innovative medical specialty that combines Dermatology and Ophthalmology. Learn more at www.dermophthalmology.com.

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