Understanding Glaucoma : Risks, Symptoms, and Treatments

11/09/2025

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that can cause irreversible damage to the optic nerve, often without any noticeable symptoms. In fact, many patients only begin to experience issues when starting treatment, as some glaucoma eye drops can have uncomfortable side effects. Glaucoma affects over 2.7 million people in the United States and more than 60 million worldwide.

Types of Glaucoma

There are several forms of glaucoma, but primary open-angle glaucoma is the most common and the most mysterious. It develops gradually, as the eye does not drain fluid properly (similar to a clogged drain). This leads to increased intraocular pressure (IOP), which damages the optic nerve.

This type of glaucoma is painless and initially causes no changes in vision. Early stages often present no warning signs. As the disease progresses, blind spots may appear in the peripheral (side) vision. Most people do not notice any vision changes until significant damage has occurred. This is why glaucoma is often referred to as the “silent thief of sight.”

Regular eye exams are essential for detecting glaucoma early, especially for individuals with a family history of the disease, as genetics play a significant role.

How Glaucoma Is Diagnosed

A comprehensive eye examination for glaucoma should include:

Tonometry: Measures intraocular pressure.
Optic nerve evaluation: Includes direct examination and tomography to assess nerve health.
Pachymetry: Measures corneal thickness.
Visual field test: Detects blind spots.
Gonioscopy: Examines the anterior chamber angle.
Slit-lamp biomicroscopy: Evaluates eye structures to rule out other conditions that may raise eye pressure, such as iris abnormalities, pseudoexfoliation, or neovascularization.

Can Glaucoma Be Stopped?

Glaucoma damage is permanent and irreversible. The goal of treatment is to halt disease progression as soon as it is detected, although any damage already done cannot be reversed.

Medical Treatment

The primary approach is reducing intraocular pressure, which is the only modifiable risk factor. This is usually achieved through eye drops, which can:

Reduce the production of aqueous fluid.
Improve fluid drainage from the eye.

While effective, glaucoma medications can cause side effects, including:

Stinging or itching eyes
Red eyes or skin around the eyes
Changes in heartbeat or energy levels
Breathing issues (especially for patients with asthma)
Dry mouth
Blurred vision
Eyelash growth
Changes in eye or eyelid color

Patients should always inform their doctor about other medications they are taking to avoid interactions. At Barraquer Eye Hospital UAE, our doctors customize the treatment for each patient according to their condition and medical history.

Laser Treatment

There are two main types of laser surgery:

Trabeculoplasty: For open-angle glaucoma, this procedure improves fluid drainage and can be used alone or alongside medications. Recent studies suggest it can be safely used early in the diagnosis.
Iridotomy: For angle-closure glaucoma, a laser creates a tiny hole in the iris to help fluid reach the drainage angle.

Surgical Treatment

Surgery is considered when medications and laser treatments are insufficient. Options include:

Filtering surgeries (trabeculectomy or non-penetrating deep sclerectomy): Create a drainage pathway to lower eye pressure.
Glaucoma drainage devices: Implant a tube that directs fluid to a reservoir, which is then absorbed by nearby blood vessels.
MIGS (Micro-Invasive Glaucoma Surgery): Includes stents and less invasive drainage devices. These procedures are safer with fewer complications but generally reduce IOP by only 20–25%, making them suitable for non-advanced glaucoma.

The Patient-Doctor Partnership

Successful glaucoma management requires a team approach. Patients should discuss concerns, side effects, and treatment doubts with their ophthalmologist. Doctors should provide clear explanations about treatment options, side effects, and potential complications.

Since glaucoma is a chronic disease, trust and open communication between patient and doctor are crucial. Frequent follow-ups help monitor progression and ensure effective management.

Schedule a Consultation Today

For consultation, please contact us:

Email: appointments@barraquer.ae
Phone (Outside the UAE): +971 4 573 9999
Toll-Free (Within the UAE): 800 234823 (BEHUAE)
Availability: 7 days a week, from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM
Extended hours on Monday until 8:00 PM

Our team will be pleased to assist you.