Bausch + Lomb and the Glaucoma Research Foundation are partnering to discuss a common side effect of glaucoma medication. Learn what new research has to say about the impact of hyperemia (red-eye) on the lives of people with glaucoma.* 

What Is Hyperemia?

Hyperemia is an increased amount of blood in the vessels of an organ or tissue in the body. It is also known as red-eye, and is a common complaint of patients being treated for glaucoma. Hyperemia is often the primary reason patients stop or skip glaucoma medication, which may lead to deterioration of a person’s eye health and vision.

What Were the Research Findings?

Bausch + Lomb and the Glaucoma Research Foundation conducted a survey that included 101 adults who have glaucoma and have experienced hyperemia as a result of their treatment. Their findings included:

• Sixty-one percent (61%) of patients reported that they were not aware of the side effect until after experiencing it.
• Forty-three percent (43%) of patients reported talking to their doctors about changing their glaucoma treatment as a result.
• Twelve percent (12%) of patients admitted to either skipping doses or stopping their prescription eye drops after experiencing hyperemia. 
• Forty-one percent (41%) of respondents noted concerns about experiencing negative social interactions as a result of hyperemia. 

How Will Awareness Improve the Lives of Patients with Hyperemia?

The results of this study show there needs to be more attention and thoughtfulness to treating glaucoma patients. Patients admittedly experience embarrassment and self-consciousness from hyperemia, which is leading some to stop or skip medication. In the long run, this is hurting patients’ vision and overall health. 

“The results reinforce the importance for eyecare professionals to have an open dialogue with their patients about the available treatment options and any concerns that they may have,” said Andrew Iwach, M.D., board chair, Glaucoma Research Foundation, and executive director, Glaucoma Center of San Francisco. “This can help patients to feel confident about managing their glaucoma and demonstrate the importance of taking control of their eye health by maintaining the appropriate treatment regimen.”

*Bausch Health Companies Inc. (2022, January 4). NEW SURVEY FROM BAUSCH + LOMB AND GLAUCOMA RESEARCH FOUNDATION REVEALS EMOTIONAL AND SOCIAL IMPACT OF HYPEREMIA ON GLAUCOMA PATIENTS. Cision PR Newswire.