Glaucoma is a chronic disease that causes progressive damage to the optic nerve. The most important and treatable cause of glaucoma is high intraocular pressure (IOP) inside the eye. It is a significant cause of blindness worldwide and is a rather insidious disease. Unfortunately, damage to the optic nerve caused by glaucoma is permanent, so even though it can be treated, advanced damage cannot be reversed. While glaucoma is a dangerous and insidious disease, it is also a treatable one.
Causes of Glaucoma:
The most important and treatable cause of glaucoma is elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) or eye pressure. Normally, there is a fluid called aqueous humor produced in the eye, and after serving its purpose, it drains out through some channels. The balance between the production of aqueous humor and its drainage maintains the intraocular pressure, also known as eye pressure. An excess production of this fluid or a decrease in its drainage can lead to an increase in intraocular pressure. Increased pressure in the eye puts pressure on the optic nerve, and prolonged pressure leads to damage to the optic nerve.
Risk factors:
- Family history of glaucoma
- Age, especially after 40 years old
- Myopia (nearsightedness)
- Diabetes
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- African and Hispanic ethnicities are at higher risk.
Normal intraocular pressure values:
Generally, intraocular pressure between 6 and 21 mmHg is considered normal. However, this normal range may not apply to everyone. When evaluating glaucoma, eye doctors consider various factors such as the degree of optic nerve damage, corneal thickness, eye pressure, and the patient’s age, and they determine an appropriate intraocular pressure range for each individual.
How do I know if I have Glaucoma?
Unfortunately, you may not be able to tell on your own because glaucoma is a silent disease and does not exhibit any noticeable symptoms. This is why regular eye examinations are recommended, especially after a certain age. However, in cases of a sudden increase in eye pressure to 40 mmHg or higher, symptoms like pain, blurred vision, and headaches may occur, and these patients can be identified during a glaucoma crisis. Another group of patients is those with congenital glaucoma, which can be recognized by their families because their eye pressure has been elevated since birth, causing their pupils to be large and blurry.
How is Glaucoma diagnosed?
First, a comprehensive eye examination is conducted, including measuring eye pressure and examining the optic nerve. If there are suspicions, the thickness of the cornea is measured. Additionally, a test called optical coherence tomography (OCT) is used to assess optic nerve damage or its severity. Visual field tests can be conducted to measure visual field loss. Based on these findings, the appropriate treatment plan is determined.
How is Glaucoma treated?
Glaucoma treatment can be divided into medical (using medication) and surgical approaches. Medical treatment often begins with eye drops, but sometimes one drop may not be sufficient, and additional drops may be prescribed. In cases where eye pressure cannot be controlled with medication or for patients who cannot use medication for various reasons, surgical treatment, or glaucoma surgery, may be performed.
If I have Glaucoma surgery, will I be completely cured?
Unfortunately, it is difficult to make such a definitive statement. Yes, sometimes after surgery, patients can maintain controlled eye pressure for a long time without needing medication. However, in some cases, medication may still be necessary after surgery. In short, whether it’s surgery or medication, each is a part of the treatment plan, and your eye doctor will determine the most suitable approach for you.
Should Glaucoma patients be under continuous monitoring?
Absolutely. This disease is chronic, just like diabetes and hypertension. Patients with glaucoma should undergo routine check-ups and follow-up appointments.
I have Glaucoma, but I’m not receiving treatment. Will I go blind?
Glaucoma is not a disease that causes blindness overnight. However, patients who have glaucoma for a long time without treatment are definitely at a high risk.