GLAUCOMA

Glaucoma is a disease that progresses with increased intraocular pressure. The optic nerve is damaged due to increased intraocular pressure. Since it is a slowly progressing disease, the classic symptom of a tunnel-shaped vision defect only occurs in the late stages. Since central vision is typically preserved until the advanced stages of the disease, it is unfortunately noticed by the patient very late.

Who is affected by glaucoma?
The risk of glaucoma increases in people over the age of 40.
Glaucoma may be related to genetics. The risk of development is higher in people with a family history of glaucoma. It is known that glaucoma is more common in those with migraine.
Glaucoma can develop in retinal detachment, eye tumors and eye infections such as chronic uveitis or iritis.
The frequency of glaucoma is approximately doubled in high myopes.
The risk of developing glaucoma is higher in those with diabetes.
Serious eye injuries can cause increased intraocular pressure.
Long-term cortisone use can cause glaucoma.
It is important for people with these characteristics to have regular eye examinations for early detection of optic nerve damage.

Does glaucoma occur in babies?

Yes, the type called congenital glaucoma is seen in the newborn period and can cause a large eye appearance called buphthalmus due to excessive expansion in the elastic eye structure.

While drug treatment is primarily administered to adults, the primary treatment in babies is surgery.

How does a glaucoma crisis occur?
It usually occurs in patients with a narrow angle in the eye, when the angle closes and blood pressure suddenly increases. The eye becomes red, painful and vision is blurred. Emergency drug treatment applied at this stage prevents permanent damage to the eye. After the emergency situation is corrected, the patient is given drops that he/she can use continuously and after the eye calms down, laser treatment can be applied according to the suitability of the doctor.
How is glaucoma monitored?
Although it varies depending on the condition of the eye and the patient, patients are usually evaluated by an ophthalmologist every 3-4 months. Glaucoma tests are performed and the patient is informed about the condition of the eye.