Glaucoma: Can allergy medications make it worse?
Glaucoma: Can allergy medications make it worse?QuestionIs it safe to take antihistamines if you have glaucoma? I've heard conflicting advice. AnswerCold and allergy medications that contain antihistamines often come with a warning that people with glaucoma shouldn't use them. However, this really depends on which type of glaucoma you have. People with open-angle glaucoma — the most common type — can safely use antihistamines to treat their allergy symptoms. But people with closed-angle glaucoma, also called narrow-angle glaucoma or angle-closure glaucoma, should avoid antihistamines or use them with caution. This is because antihistamines may cause enlargement (dilation) of the pupil — which, in rare cases, can trigger an attack of closed-angle glaucoma. Antihistamines generally have no effect on open-angle glaucoma. If you have glaucoma and have questions or concerns about the use of antihistamines, talk to your doctor. RelatedLast Updated: 05/03/2006 © 1998-2013 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). All rights reserved. A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only. "Mayo," "Mayo Clinic," "MayoClinic.com," "Mayo Clinic Health Information," "Reliable information for a healthier life" and the triple-shield Mayo logo are trademarks of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research.
Terms and conditions of use |
|
|
|
|
