OPHTHALMOLOGY

Q: I am having a hard time remembering to take my glaucoma drops regularly. Do you have any tips to help me be more compliant? A: Remembering to take your glaucoma eye drops can be easier using a combination of visual, sound, written, and activity cues. First, schedule drops around daily routines and activities such as when you wake up, morning tasks like making coffee, shaving, or brushing your teeth, mealtimes, or when you go to bed. Keep drops in plain sight and in the same place. You can also set timed reminders that sound on an alarm clock, cell phone, or other electronic device.

Next, write down an exact schedule for your drops, especially if

taking more than one, and keep it with your drops. Keep a calendar nearby and draw an ‘x’ through each day as you take the drops. This will remind you as to whether or not you took the drops for that day. Ask your doctor what to do if you accidentally forget a dose and learn how to instill drops properly so you don’t run out of medication.

Other ideas include posting a note in a prominent location(s), sending yourself email reminders, or asking a friend or family member to remind you. When traveling, make sure to take along your glaucoma drops.

Educate yourself about glaucoma and ask questions. If you have a concern about the cost or side effects of your drops, talk with your eye doctor to see what other options are available. Most importantly, see your eye doctor as frequently as advised to monitor

your particular glaucoma treatment plan. Taking your drops as prescribed, every day, is essential when treating glaucoma. Proper compliance can, in many cases,

help effectively control glaucoma and help prevent further damage to the optic nerve.

Gregory Eippert, MD 8140 Norton Parkway Mentor, OH 44060

440-255-1115 www.opivision.com