Glaucoma (Eye Pressure) Treatment: Solutions to Prevent Vision Loss
Glaucoma is an eye disease caused by abnormally high intraocular pressure. The pressure inside the eye can cause damage to the retina and optic nerve and may lead to permanent vision loss in the future. Therefore, early diagnosis and treatment is very important.
Glaucoma Symptoms
Glaucoma usually has no obvious symptoms at the beginning, but the following conditions should be considered
- Narrowing of the visual field
- Blurred night vision
- Pain and tenderness around the eyes
- Headache
- Eye strain and blurred vision
Causes of Glaucoma
Some common causes of glaucoma are:
- High Intraocular Pressure:
- Glaucoma damages the retina and optic nerve due to higher than normal intraocular pressure.
- Genetic Predisposition:
- People with a family history of glaucoma have a higher risk of glaucoma.
- Aging:
- The risk of glaucoma increases with age.
- High Hypertension and Diabetes:
- Systemic diseases such as high blood pressure and diabetes can increase the risk of glaucoma.
- Eye Injuries and Surgical Interventions:
Eye trauma or surgery can lead to the development of glaucoma.
Glaucoma Treatment Methods
- Medicines to Lower Eye Pressure:
- Eye drops or oral medications are usually used to treat glaucoma.
- These medicines lower intraocular pressure, reducing pressure on the retina and optic nerve.
- Laser Therapy (SLT - Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty):
- If intraocular pressure is high and medication is not sufficient, laser treatment can be applied.
- SLT treatment controls the pressure by allowing the fluid in the eye to drain properly.
- Surgical Interventions:
- When medication and laser treatment are not enough, various surgical procedures can be performed to stop the progression of glaucoma.
- Methods such as trabeculectomy and placement of drainage devices are used.
- Rehabilitation and Eye Care:
- Regular eye examinations, early diagnosis and control are very important in the treatment of glaucoma.
Risk Factors of Glaucoma
Glaucoma is more common in the following groups:
- Individuals aged 50 years and older
- People with a family history of glaucoma
- Those with high intraocular pressure
- Those with systemic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension
- Long-term cortisone users
Advantages of Glaucoma Treatment
- Prevents Vision Loss:
- When glaucoma is left untreated, vision loss can occur. These losses can be prevented with treatment, early diagnosis and regular follow-up.
- Controls Eye Pressure:
- Treatment regulates intraocular pressure and prevents damage to the retina and optic nerve.
- Preserves Quality of Vision:
- Early treatment protects patients' quality of life and prevents further progression of vision problems.
- Prevents Vision Loss:
For whom are glaucoma treatment options suitable?
- Individuals aged 50 years and older
- People with a family history of glaucoma
- Those with high intraocular pressure
- Those with diseases such as diabetes and hypertension
- Chronic drug or cortisone users
- Anyone at risk of vision loss
01
Can glaucoma be cured?
Yes, glaucoma is treatable, but the treatment process can last a lifetime and requires regular follow-up.
02
Is laser treatment for glaucoma effective?
Yes, laser treatment can be effective, especially in cases that do not respond to medication.
03
Is surgery necessary in the treatment of glaucoma?
Sometimes surgical intervention may be necessary when medication and laser treatment are inadequate.
Preventing Vision Loss with Glaucoma Treatment
Glaucoma can be controlled with early diagnosis and proper treatment. Regular eye examinations ensure that the disease is detected in the early stages and prevent vision loss.
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