Glaucoma Treatment in Dubai

Glaucoma Treatment at Clemenceau Medical Center Hospital Dubai

Glaucoma is a group of eye disorders characterized by damage to the optic nerve, which connects the eye to the brain, leading to vision loss and potentially blindness when left untreated. The main risk associated with glaucoma is increased intraocular pressure which can damage the optic nerve over time.

Types of Glaucoma

There are two main types:

1. Open-angle glaucoma (most common type)
2. angle-closure glaucoma

Glaucoma Symptoms

Open-angle glaucoma – This is the most common form and typically progresses slowly, often without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. As it advances, peripheral vision gradually diminishes, creating tunnel vision. Some individuals may also experience halos around lights, difficulty adjusting to low light, and occasional eye discomfort.

Angle-closure glaucoma – This type can manifest suddenly and is characterized by a rapid increase in IOP. Symptoms include severe eye pain, headache, blurred vision, nausea, vomiting, and the appearance of a cloudy cornea. It’s considered a medical emergency requiring immediate attention.

Glaucoma Causes

The primary cause of glaucoma is elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). This pressure can result from a buildup of aqueous humor, a clear fluid that nourishes the eye. When the drainage system in the eye is compromised or overproduces this fluid, it can lead to increased IOP.

Risk Factors of Developing Glaucoma

Various factors can increase one’s risk of developing glaucoma.  These include:

• Age (more common in older individuals)
• Family history of glaucoma
• Specific ethnic backgrounds (African Americans, Hispanics, Asians)
• Diabetes
• Hypertension
• History of eye injuries.

Glaucoma Treatment in Dubai – Options

Treatment for glaucoma primarily focuses on lowering IOP to prevent further damage to the optic nerve. Several treatment options are available:

• Eye Drops – Specific medication eye drops can either decrease the production of aqueous humor or increase its drainage.
• Laser Therapy – Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) and laser peripheral iridotomy (LPI) are procedures that can enhance the drainage of fluid from the eye.
• Oral Medications – In some cases, oral medications may be prescribed alongside or instead of eye drops to lower IOP.
• Surgery – Surgical interventions such as trabeculectomy, shunt implantation, or minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries (MIGS), may be necessary for more advanced or severe cases.

At CMC Hospital Dubai we customise your glaucoma treatment which may involve a combination of the treatment options above. Regular follow-up appointments and ongoing monitoring of IOP are crucial to track progress and adjust treatment as needed. Early detection can help preserve vision and improve the quality of life for individuals with glaucoma.