What is Glaucoma? Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Methods

Glaucoma Definition and Overview

Glaucoma is a progressive eye disease that typically damages the optic nerve due to increased intraocular pressure, potentially leading to permanent vision loss if left untreated. It is also known as eye pressure among the public. The optic nerve is a vital structure that carries visual information from the eye to the brain. Glaucoma causes damage to the cells in this nerve, primarily leading to losses in the peripheral (side) vision field. Early diagnosis and treatment can slow down or stop the progression of glaucoma.

Causes of Glaucoma

The most important cause of glaucoma is the impaired drainage of fluid (aqueous humor) in the eye, resulting in increased intraocular pressure. However, in some cases, glaucoma can develop even if the intraocular pressure is normal (normal-tension glaucoma). Other causes and risk factors of glaucoma include:

• Family history of glaucoma
• Advanced age
• Myopia (nearsightedness) or hyperopia (farsightedness)
• Diabetes
• High or low blood pressure
• Long-term use of corticosteroid medications
• Eye injuries or surgeries

Symptoms of Glaucoma

The most insidious aspect of glaucoma is that it usually does not cause noticeable symptoms in the early stages. Patients may not realize the condition until vision field losses become apparent. Therefore, regular eye examinations are crucial for the early diagnosis of glaucoma. Symptoms of glaucoma in the later stages may include:

• Peripheral (side) vision loss
• Tunnel vision (in advanced stages)
• Eye pain (in acute glaucoma crisis)
• Blurred vision
• Seeing halos around lights
• Eye redness (in acute glaucoma crisis)

Who is at Risk for Glaucoma?

Individuals with the following conditions are at higher risk for glaucoma:

• Being over 40 years old
• Having a family history of glaucoma
• Being of African descent
• Having diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease
• Being myopic or hyperopic
• Using corticosteroid medications for a long time
• Having had an eye injury

Who is Not Suitable?

Glaucoma treatment is usually planned individually for each patient. However, in some cases, certain treatment methods may not be suitable. For example:

• Some medications may not be suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
• Surgical procedures may be postponed in people with eye infections or inflammation.
• In patients with advanced vision loss, treatment may only be aimed at maintaining the current condition.
• According to Opr. Dr. Sinan Göker, the patient's general health and other medications they use can also affect the choice of treatment. Therefore, a detailed eye examination and medical history are important.

Glaucoma Treatment Processes and Approaches

The main goal of glaucoma treatment is to prevent or slow down damage to the optic nerve by lowering intraocular pressure. Treatment options include:

• Eye Drops: Different types of eye drops, such as prostaglandin analogs, beta-blockers, alpha-adrenergic agonists, and carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, are used to lower intraocular pressure. They are usually the first treatment option.
• Laser Treatment: Laser methods such as Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) and Argon Laser Trabeculoplasty (ALT) help lower intraocular pressure by facilitating the drainage of fluid in the eye.
• Surgical Treatment: Surgical methods such as trabeculectomy, tube implantation, and minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) are used to lower intraocular pressure. They are usually preferred when medication and laser treatment are unsuccessful.

Risks and Possible Side Effects of Glaucoma Treatment ⚠️

Although glaucoma treatment is generally safe, it carries some risks and side effects, as with any medical intervention. Side effects of eye drops may include stinging, burning, redness, blurred vision, and eyelash lengthening. Side effects of laser treatment may include a temporary increase in intraocular pressure, inflammation, and rarely vision loss. Risks of surgical treatment include infection, bleeding, excessive decrease in intraocular pressure (hypotony), and cataract development. Opr. Dr. Sinan Göker helps his patients make informed decisions by explaining the risks and benefits of treatment options in detail.

Realistic Expectations in Glaucoma Treatment

Glaucoma treatment aims to stop or slow down vision loss. It is not possible to reverse existing vision loss. Starting treatment early is important to prevent the progression of vision loss. Patient compliance with treatment and regular follow-up check-ups are critical for the success of the treatment. It should be remembered that glaucoma may progress despite treatment and additional treatments may be needed.

When to See a Doctor?

You should definitely consult an ophthalmologist in the following cases:

• Narrowing or blurring of the field of vision
• Eye pain or redness
• Seeing halos around lights
• Having a family history of glaucoma
• Being over 40 years old and not having regular eye exams

Individuals with suspected glaucoma or symptoms are advised to have a detailed eye examination for suitability assessment.

Medical Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only. You should consult an ophthalmologist for diagnosis and treatment.