As it does not show symptoms in its early stages, glaucoma can often be diagnosed during routine eye examinations. Known commonly as "ocular hypertension" and colloquially as "black water disease," glaucoma can lead to vision loss if not diagnosed and treated early.
Intraocular pressure arises from increased eye pressure and can lead to irreversible damage to the eye. The disease progresses without initially showing symptoms and can be difficult to detect as it first affects the function of one eye. Although ocular hypertension can be seen in all age groups, it is particularly prevalent in individuals over the age of 40. Patients over 40 should have an eye examination by a specialist at least once a year.
At Risk Group Over 40
Routine Checks Should Not Be Neglected
Progression Can Be Halted with Treatment
- Medical Treatment: There are many drops used in the medical treatment of ocular hypertension. These drops lower intraocular pressure through various mechanisms of action. They are used regularly at certain intervals and for a lifetime. If the initial treatment is unsuccessful, a second drop is added. If intraocular pressure still does not decrease, a third drop is added or other treatment methods are considered according to the treating doctor's opinion.
- Laser Treatment: Laser procedures may be applied in the treatment of ocular hypertension if sufficient response is not achieved with medical treatment.
- Surgical Treatment: In surgery, a small canal is opened in the white part of the eye. This canal, small enough not to be seen from the outside, facilitates the drainage of high-pressure fluid within the eye. With advancing technology and new methods, surgeries can be performed without using stitches or by employing a tube to remove the fluid from the eye in advanced cases.
The Importance of Early Intervention in Glaucoma
Glaucoma, also known as ocular hypertension or colloquially as black water disease, is one of the most common eye diseases worldwide that can cause permanent vision loss. With intraocular pressure higher than normal, irreversible damage occurs to the optic nerve over time. As the disease typically progresses insidiously, many individuals are not diagnosed with glaucoma until serious damage occurs.
Why Is Glaucoma Difficult to Detect?
Glaucoma symptoms are often not apparent until the later stages. Early on, since it usually affects only one eye, an individual may not notice the condition as the other eye may see well. Symptoms such as narrowing of the field of vision, seeing halos around lights at night, headaches, and a feeling of pressure in the eyes generally appear in the late stages.
Diagnostic Methods Used for Monitoring Glaucoma
Advanced devices such as optic nerve tomography (OCT), computerized visual field testing, and pachymetry are used in the monitoring of glaucoma. These devices can detect damage to the optic nerve at an early stage and allow the assessment of the disease's progression rate. With guidance from a specialist eye doctor, these diagnostics enable the personalized planning of glaucoma treatment. Glaucoma Treatment Methods and Their Applications Glaucoma treatment is determined by the type and stage of the disease, as well as the individual's overall health condition.
The first step is medical treatment, attempting to control intraocular pressure with eye drops. If the drugs do not yield satisfactory results, laser treatment or glaucoma surgery may be considered. Glaucoma surgery involves surgical procedures to reduce intraocular pressure. Thanks to advancing technologies, treatments have become more comfortable using modern surgical techniques that involve creating micro-channels without stitches. In some cases, a tube is placed inside the eye to allow controlled fluid removal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is glaucoma, and why does it occur?
Glaucoma is a disease that occurs due to an increase in intraocular pressure from improper drainage of the intraocular fluid. This increase can exert pressure on the optic nerve, causing irreversible damage. Factors such as genetics, age, diabetes, prolonged corticosteroid use, and eye trauma play a role in its occurrence.
Can glaucoma be completely cured?
Unfortunately, the vision loss caused by glaucoma cannot be reversed. With appropriate and regular treatment, the progression of the disease can be halted or slowed down. Therefore, glaucoma treatment can yield highly effective results if diagnosed early. The goal is to control intraocular pressure with medications, laser, or surgical methods.
Who is more likely to have glaucoma?
Glaucoma can occur in any age group but is more common in individuals over 40. Those with a family history of glaucoma, diabetics, myopic individuals, and those who have used corticosteroids long-term are at higher risk. Additionally, individuals who have experienced eye trauma also have a higher likelihood of developing glaucoma. It is recommended that individuals in the risk group undergo a detailed eye examination at least once a year.
What should be taken into consideration after glaucoma surgery?
After glaucoma surgery, the patient should pay attention to eye hygiene, regularly use prescribed medications, and avoid physical strain for a certain period. Caution should be exercised against infection risks in the early days, and medical checkups should not be neglected. Although the recovery process may vary individually, patients can resume daily activities shortly after procedures performed with modern techniques.