![Get to Know Glaucoma, the “Sight Thief” That Can Cause Blindness](https://www.emc.id/assets/img/img-preload.png)
Glaucoma is an eye disease caused by high intraocular pressure, which can damage the optic nerve and result in vision damage. This disease often causes no symptoms in its early stages, so it is called the "stealer of sight," because the damage can occur without realizing it. Glaucoma can cause gradual vision loss and if left untreated, can lead to permanent blindness. Therefore, it is important for you to recognize the symptoms of glaucoma and have regular eye examinations.
Get to know the causes of glaucoma
Intraocular pressure is the pressure inside the eyeball, produced by a fluid called aqueous humor. This fluid is produced in the front of the eye and functions to provide structural support and maintain the shape of the eyeball. Normal intraocular pressure is important for maintaining the shape of the eye and providing nutrition to the eye structures.
However, excessively high intraocular pressure can be a major risk factor in the development of glaucoma. Glaucoma generally occurs when the outflow of eye fluid is disrupted, causing a buildup of pressure that can damage the optic nerve. This condition can impact the visual field and, if left untreated, can cause blindness.
but there are several risk factors and mechanisms that can cause this condition. Some causes and risk factors for glaucoma include:
- Increased Intraocular Pressure: The main factor causing glaucoma is increased intraocular pressure. This can occur due to interference with the flow of eye fluid (humor aquosus), which can cause a buildup of pressure in the eye.
- Genetic Factors: There is a genetic or hereditary predisposition in some cases of glaucoma. If there is a family history of glaucoma, a person's risk of developing this condition may increase.
- High Blood Pressure: High blood pressure may be a risk factor for glaucoma, although the relationship is not fully understood.
- Certain Medications: Some medications can increase intraocular pressure and increase the risk of glaucoma.
How to Prevent Glaucoma
While it is not always possible to completely prevent glaucoma, there are steps that can be taken to reduce the risk or detect this condition in its early stages. Here are some ways to prevent or manage glaucoma risk:
- Regular Eye Exams: Having regular eye exams is key to early detection of glaucoma. An eye exam can help measure intraocular pressure, check the condition of the optic nerve, and detect signs of glaucoma in its early stages.
- Knowing Family History: If there is a family history of glaucoma, it is important to inform your eye doctor. This may increase awareness and monitoring for glaucoma risk.
- Protects Eyes from Injury: Wearing safety glasses or eye protection during high-risk activities, such as contact sports or construction work, can help prevent eye injuries that can increase the risk of glaucoma.
- Follow Your Doctor's Instructions: If you have been diagnosed with glaucoma or have high risk factors, follow your eye doctor's recommended instructions and treatment.
Know Glaucoma Treatment Methods
Glaucoma treatment aims to control intraocular pressure (pressure inside the eyeball) and prevent further damage to the optic nerve. Recommended therapy depends on the type and severity of glaucoma. Some commonly used treatment methods include:
- Eye Drops: Eye drops are the primary treatment for reducing intraocular pressure. They can work by reducing eye fluid production or increasing fluid outflow. Eye drops must be used according to the doctor's prescription and regularly.
- Minor Surgery (Trabeculectomy): If eye drops and laser procedures are not effective enough, an eye doctor may prescribe a minor surgery called a trabeculectomy. In this procedure, a small portion of eye tissue is removed to increase the flow of eye fluid.
- Eye Drainage Implant: Placement of an implant or valve that helps drain eye fluid may be an option in some cases to reduce intraocular pressure.
- Regular Monitoring: Glaucoma patients need to undergo regular eye examinations to monitor intraocular pressure levels and see whether the treatment given is effective or needs to be adjusted.
It is important to note that glaucoma treatment is long-term, and its implementation must be consistent. Patients must comply with the doctor's instructions and undergo regular eye examinations. If you have glaucoma or experience symptoms such as visual disturbances, eye pain, or headaches, consult an eye doctor immediately for proper evaluation and management.
Article written by dr. Naomi Patioran, Sp.M (Eye Specialist at EMC Alam Sutera Hospital).