Have you experienced a change in your vision over the past few days, but ignored it because you think it’s just part of ageing? It is our advice that you don’t wait any more time and go to see an eye doctor for an eye test, since it could be caused by glaucoma, if not treated, can result in loss of vision.

What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma occurs due to damage to the optic nerve. The increased pressure in the eye affects the optic nerve and causes damage. Yet, glaucoma may be present even at eye pressure levels within normal values, and not all people having higher pressure in the eye have glaucoma. That is why the measurement of the pressure in the eye is not enough for diagnosis.

Open-angle glaucoma is the most widespread type. Angle-closure glaucoma is not like that, as it emerges suddenly and results in serious symptoms.

Early Warning Signs That You Should Not Overlook

One of the problems associated with glaucoma is the absence of early signs and symptoms. People do not realise something is wrong with their eyes until peripheral vision starts to fail. With advancing glaucoma, blind spots and decreased side vision may occur. If not addressed on time, glaucoma can lead to partial vision impairment.

Severe pain in the eye, redness of the eye, vision impairment, and nausea are some of the signs of angle-closure glaucoma. It is necessary to seek professional advice immediately since increasing pressure in the eye may endanger vision.

A higher risk for developing glaucoma exists for patients who have relatives suffering from this disease, seniors and people with specific medical and demographic characteristics. The ophthalmologist will be able to define the frequency of eye exams for you personally.

How Is Glaucoma Diagnosed?

A comprehensive eye examination is essential because there is no single test that reliably identifies every case of glaucoma. During the assessment, an ophthalmologist may measure intraocular pressure, examine the optic nerve and retina, assess the drainage angle, and perform visual field testing to evaluate peripheral vision. Dilated examination allows the doctor to examine structures at the back of the eye more closely.

Additional imaging or repeat examinations may be recommended when the findings are uncertain or when monitoring is necessary. Importantly, a high eye-pressure reading does not automatically mean that glaucoma is present, while normal pressure does not completely rule it out. Diagnosis depends on the overall clinical picture.

Glaucoma Treatment Options

Although glaucoma cannot currently be cured and existing optic nerve damage cannot be reversed, appropriate treatment can slow or stop further damage and help preserve remaining vision. Treatment is selected according to the type and severity of glaucoma, eye pressure, optic nerve status, and other individual factors.

Eye Drops Prescribed

Eye drops form the common first choice for medication. Various types of drugs are responsible for either cutting down the secretion of fluid from the eye or facilitating proper drainage of fluid from the eye, thus decreasing the pressure. Since glaucoma is treated with an aim to stop damage, not necessarily improve vision, regular use of prescribed drugs is necessary.

Laser Therapy

Laser therapies may be effective in improving the drainage of fluid and lowering the eye pressure in patients. For instance, laser trabeculoplasty is recommended for patients suffering from open-angle glaucoma.Treatment primarily depends on the type and symptoms of the glaucoma.

Glaucoma Surgery

If medical treatment and the use of a laser do not help control the disorder, surgery is suggested by an ophthalmologist. Several different types of surgery are used, and the decision about the type of surgery to be performed is based on the nature of the disorder in the patient and earlier treatment. Regular follow-up remains important after treatment to monitor eye pressure and optic nerve health.

The Importance of Getting Your Eyes Checked Regularly

Glaucoma does not show any noticeable signs until it becomes severe; therefore, regular check-ups become essential for those who are at high risk. The early detection of the condition helps an ophthalmologist start treatment in order to save more vision.

If you notice a change in peripheral vision, have glaucoma in your family history or have been informed by your doctor about higher eye pressure, you should consider undergoing a comprehensive test.

Preserve Your Eyesight Through Proper Eye Care Services

Getting worried about glaucoma or any inexplicable problems with your eyesight is never a solution. Rather, you should immediately book an appointment with a specialised ophthalmology clinic in Dubai. Timely diagnosis will enable your doctor to detect glaucoma or any other eye disease and provide proper treatment.

The good news for you is that you don’t need to waste your valuable time finding the right ophthalmology clinic in Dubai because you have already found our clinic. Book an appointment to visit. We will examine your eyes and recommend the best treatment for you.