Why does my eye pressure go UP when I lie DOWN?

Why does my eye pressure go UP when I lie DOWN? Why is it important to lower my eye pressure while I sleep?

Both positional factors and circadian rhythms, likely related to cortisol, cause an increase in IOP at night for patients with glaucoma. Lowering the eye pressure reduces stress on the optic nerve, preventing damage and improving blood flow; overall, it helps to slow down the progression of vision loss caused by glaucoma.^3,5,7

How do I use FSYX?

The FSYX Ocular Pressure Adjusting Pump (OPAP) system consists of lightweight, comfortable eye goggles (like a more comfortable pair of swimming goggles) that fit over your eyes. It’s important to make sure the FSYX goggles are clean and the OPAP is fully charged before each use. Then connect the FSYX goggles to the Ocular Pressure Adjusting Pump. Once the goggles have been fitted properly (sealed around each eye), you simply have to press the “Start” button to begin treatment.

They are designed to be worn when sleeping and can be used whether you sleep on your back or on your side. Once the attached pump is turned on, the goggles create negative pressure in each eye.¹

How safe is FSYX?

A total of 16 studies were completed before FSYX OPAP was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Those results demonstrated that FSYX is well-tolerated with no serious adverse events. The side effect most frequently reported was puffy (or swollen) eyes that would resolve on its own.^1,10

FSYX is not for use in patients who are allergic to silicone, and FSYX is not recommended for use in patients with a history of retinal detachment or patients with narrow anterior chamber angle anatomy.¹²

If I’m already on other medications or therapies to lower my IOP, why would I need FSYX?

While other glaucoma therapies may be effective, IOP increases during sleep which can worsen existing optic nerve damage. By supplementing treatment with FSYX, additional IOP lowering is added during the night when the optic nerve is at a greater risk because of IOP elevations that typically occur. Only your eye care professional will know if FSYX is right for you, because the need for additional IOP lowering varies from person to person.^1,7

How does FSYX work?

Through a connected tube, the FSYX goggles gently apply negative atmospheric pressure over each eye, which lowers your eye pressure while the goggles are worn.

FSYX works because it’s based on physics. That’s why 100% of patients had IOP lowering in the study. 97% of patients had more than 20% IOP lowering at night in the long-term HERCULES clinical trial. The average IOP lowering was 39% at night.¹

How will I know if FSYX is working?

Once you turn on the pump and hit “Start,” you will feel a small amount of gentle pressure when the goggles are sealed around each eye (although the pressure should not be uncomfortable, or keep you from sleeping). You will hear an audible beep if the vacuum seal is lost.

Your doctor will also receive data from the FSYX OPAP to monitor your eye pressure levels.

Will I be able to sleep if I’m using FSYX? What if I’m not sleeping at home?

The FSYX system is designed to integrate into your lifestyle and sleep habits; the goggles are available in size small, medium, or large to fit comfortably, and the system is quiet and compact.

FSYX is also portable, equipped with a USB cable and AC adapter to charge the OPAP after each use.

Who is eligible for FSYX?

The FSYX OPAP is indicated for adult patients with open-angle glaucoma and IOP ≤21 mmHg who are currently using or have undergone another IOP-lowering treatment.¹³

Why should I ask my doctor about treating my normal-tension glaucoma with FSYX?

As the first and only therapy available that doesn’t involve medication or surgery, this is a breakthrough treatment for glaucoma. Now it’s possible to get your eye pressure to rest when you do!¹

Is FSYX right for me?

Only your eye care provider can prescribe FSYX OPAP, so it’s important to talk to your provider about how best to treat your glaucoma. If you have been diagnosed with glaucoma, and you have previously or are currently using other treatment to lower your eye pressure, you may be a candidate for FSYX.

Will insurance cover FSYX?

Balance Ophthalmics is currently working to establish insurance coverage to ensure access for glaucoma patients who need it most. Talk to your doctor or insurance provider to learn more.