الجلوكوما (الماء الأزرق) (Glaucoma)

Everything you need to know about Glaucoma

What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma, also known as the “silent thief of sight,” is a common eye disease that results from increased intraocular pressure caused by a failure in the drainage of the aqueous humor responsible for nourishing the front part of the eye. If unchecked, elevated eye pressure can damage the optic nerve, leading to vision loss.Glaucoma types include:

Open-Angle Glaucoma: Where there is an issue with the drainage of the aqueous humor.

• Angle-Closure Glaucoma: Where there is a complete blockage in the drainage of the aqueous humor.
• Congenital Glaucoma: Present in children and appears at birth.
• Secondary Glaucoma: Occurs due to certain chronic illnesses or medications, such as cataracts and uveitis.
• What Are the Symptoms of Glaucoma?Glaucoma symptoms are not apparent at the onset and gradually appear later, which is why it is often detected during routine eye check-ups. Symptoms vary with the type of glaucoma.Open-Angle Glaucoma:

Early symptoms are usually absent. However, peripheral vision gradually deteriorates.

In later stages, central vision loss occurs.

• Angle-Closure Glaucoma:

• • Severe headache.
  • Intense eye pain.

• Nausea or vomiting.

• • Blurred vision.Seeing colored halos around lights.
  • Red eyes.
  • Congenital Glaucoma:Light sensitivity..
  • Enlargement of one or both eyes.
  • Redness in the eye.
  • Excess tearing.

• Headaches.

• • Frequent blinking.
  • Secondary Glaucoma:
  • Symptoms are often similar to those of open-angle or angle-closure glaucoma.
  • What Causes Glaucoma?
  • Glaucoma results from improper drainage of the aqueous humor, leading to optic nerve damage, though no clear cause is identified. However, certain factors can increase the likelihood of developing glaucoma:.
  • Aging, particularly individuals over 50 years old, are at higher risk.

• Genetics, as a family history of glaucoma increases risk.

• • Eye injuries or surgeries.

Myopia (refractive errors).

Chronic diseases such as diabetes.

Other chronic retinal diseases include diabetic retinopathy.

• Long-term use of steroid medications, whether topical or oral.
• How Is Glaucoma Diagnosed?
• A doctor will take a medical history and conduct a clinical examination, and may request additional procedures as needed, such as:
• Optic nerve examination.Eye pressure measurement. (Fundus examination with pupil dilation drops.). 
• Visual field test.Visual acuity test.. 
• Corneal thickness measurement..
• What Are the Treatment Options for Glaucoma?

Treatment involves several procedures depending on necessity, which may include:

Medications: Typically the first choice to lower eye pressure.

• Laser Treatment: If eye pressure does not decrease, laser therapy can create an opening to drain the aqueous humor and reduce pressure.
• Surgery: Considered as a last resort if other treatments fail.
• How To Prevent Glaucoma?
• Regular eye examinations contribute to the early detection of glaucoma, reducing and potentially avoiding vision loss:
• Get an eye check-up at least once every two years.
• Individuals with glaucoma risk factors should have annual check-ups.

Protect your eyes from injuries by wearing safety glasses when engaging in certain sports, working in labs, factories, or construction, or planning home repairs.

What Are the Complications of Glaucoma?

• Reduced vision.
• Permanent vision loss.
• When Should You See a Doctor?If you have any signs or symptoms of glaucoma or believe you are at risk due to factors increasing the likelihood of the disease.

Promptly see a doctor if you notice any of these symptoms:

Blurred vision.Sudden change in vision.Vision loss.

• Sudden, severe headache.
• Intense eye pain.
• Seeing dark spots or light flashes.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can lost vision from glaucoma be restored?
• Damage to the optic nerve cells is permanent and irreversible. Early detection and appropriate treatment of glaucoma are essential to prevent optic nerve damage.When should I have an eye examination?

You should have a regular eye exam at least once every two years. If you have risk factors for glaucoma, you should have an exam annually.