Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” because it can gradually damage vision without noticeable early symptoms. In Dubai, where lifestyle conditions like diabetes and hypertension are common, regular glaucoma screening is essential. The critical question is — could you have glaucoma without realizing it?

What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, usually due to increased intraocular pressure. The optic nerve carries visual information from the eye to the brain. When pressure inside the eye rises beyond safe limits, progressive and irreversible damage can occur.

Why Is Glaucoma Dangerous?

Because early-stage glaucoma often causes no pain and no obvious vision changes. Peripheral (side) vision typically deteriorates first, and many patients only notice the problem when central vision becomes affected. By then, nerve damage may already be permanent.

Who Is at Risk in Dubai?

Certain factors increase glaucoma risk, including:

• Age above 40
• Family history of glaucoma
• Diabetes or high blood pressure
• Long-term steroid use
• High eye pressure
• Severe nearsightedness

Given the prevalence of metabolic conditions in the region, routine screening becomes even more important.

What Symptoms Should Raise Concern?

In most chronic cases, there are no early symptoms. However, acute angle-closure glaucoma may present with sudden eye pain, headache, blurred vision, halos around lights, nausea, and redness. This is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention.

How Is Glaucoma Diagnosed?

A comprehensive eye evaluation includes measurement of intraocular pressure, optic nerve assessment, visual field testing, and imaging of the optic nerve. Diagnosis is based on structural and functional changes — not pressure alone.

Can Glaucoma Be Cured?

Glaucoma cannot be cured, and nerve damage cannot be reversed. However, early detection allows effective control. The goal of treatment is to lower intraocular pressure and prevent further damage.

What Are the Treatment Options?

Treatment depends on the type and severity of glaucoma and may include:

• Prescription eye drops to reduce eye pressure
• Laser procedures to improve fluid drainage
• Surgical intervention in advanced or uncontrolled cases

Long-term follow-up is essential to monitor disease progression.

How Often Should You Get Screened?

Adults above 40 should undergo periodic glaucoma screening, especially if risk factors are present. Patients with diabetes or family history should not delay evaluation, even in the absence of symptoms.

If you are concerned about glaucoma or have risk factors, timely specialist consultation is important.
Dr. Sonam Angmo Garg (MBBS, MS, DNB, FAICO), Cataract Surgeon and Medical Retina Specialist, provides comprehensive eye care at Dubai Investment Park-1, Dubai. For appointments, contact info@eyeconsultantdubai.com or call +971 54 759 9386.

Early detection is the most effective way to protect long-term vision from glaucoma.