Sharp Sight Eye Hospitals doctor shares insights on Glaucoma

Srinagar, Mar 12: On the occasion of World Glaucoma Day 2025, Dr Birjees Hakak, Senior Glaucoma Specialist at Sharp Sight Eye Hospitals,  highlighted the importance of awareness and early detection of glaucoma, often referred to as the "silent thief of sight."

Dr Birjees explained that glaucoma is a group of eye diseases characterized by optic nerve damage that can lead to irreversible blindness. "What makes glaucoma particularly dangerous is that it typically develops without noticeable symptoms until significant vision has already been lost," she said.

According to Dr Birjees, while glaucoma is usually associated with increased intraocular pressure (IOP), it can also occur with normal IOP levels, making diagnosis challenging. The condition primarily affects peripheral vision first, often preserving central vision until later stages.

Dr. Birjees emphasised that early diagnosis is crucial for preserving remaining vision. She outlined several warning signs that may indicate developing glaucoma, including peripheral vision loss, eye pain and headaches, seeing halos around lights, double vision, red eyes, and frequent changes in reading glass prescriptions.

Risk factors for glaucoma include being over 40 years of age, family history of the condition, high eye pressure, previous eye trauma, steroid use, and chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension.

"Regular comprehensive eye examinations are essential for early detection, especially for those at higher risk," Dr. Birjees stressed. While glaucoma cannot be cured, early treatment with eye drops, oral medication, laser therapy, or surgery can significantly slow its progression and preserve vision.

The World Glaucoma Week, running from March 9-15, 2025, aims to raise awareness about this condition and emphasse the importance of regular eye check-ups to protect against this silent vision threat.