Glaucoma Treatment in Dubai

What is Glaucoma? Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment in Dubai

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide, yet many people remain unaware they have the condition until it is in an advanced stage. At Fakeeh University Hospital and Medicentres in Dubai, our ophthalmology specialists emphasize the importance of early detection and regular eye check-ups to prevent vision loss.

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is an eye disease that leads to progressive and permanent vision loss due to damage to the optic nerve. This damage is often linked to increased intraocular pressure (IOP), which builds up when excess fluid in the eye does not drain properly. If untreated, glaucoma can lead to total blindness within a few years.

Causes of Glaucoma

Excessive fluid production in the eye
Blocked or slow drainage of fluid from the eye
Increased intraocular pressure damaging the optic nerve

Glaucoma often affects older adults but can occur at any age.

a picture of healthy eye and an eye with Glaucoma — Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide

Risk Factors of Glaucoma

You may be at higher risk of developing glaucoma if you have:

Age above 60 years
Family history of glaucoma (hereditary)
Chronic high eye pressure or thin corneas
Severe near-sightedness or farsightedness
Medical conditions: diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, sickle cell anemia
Previous eye surgery or head injury
Long-term use of corticosteroids, including eye drops

Tip: If you fall under any of these risk groups, visit an eye specialist in Dubai regularly for preventive screening.

Signs & Symptoms of Glaucoma

Glaucoma is called the “silent thief of sight” because early vision loss often goes unnoticed. Symptoms vary depending on the type:

Open-angle glaucoma: gradual peripheral vision loss, blind spots, tunnel vision in later stages
Acute angle-closure glaucoma: severe eye pain, headache, blurred vision, halos around lights, nausea, and eye redness
If untreated, glaucoma leads to blindness.

Diagnosis of Glaucoma

At Fakeeh University Hospital in Dubai, ophthalmologists perform a range of tests, including:

Tonometry – measuring eye pressure
Pachymetry – checking corneal thickness
Gonioscopy – examining fluid drainage angles
Optic nerve imaging – detecting nerve damage
Visual field tests – measuring vision loss

Early diagnosis ensures effective management before irreversible damage occurs.

Although glaucoma damage cannot be reversed, timely treatment can preserve vision and slow progression.

Treatment Options:

Eye Drops – reduce eye pressure by controlling fluid production and drainage.
Oral Medications – carbonic anhydrase inhibitors if eye drops are insufficient.
Laser Treatments:
- Laser Trabeculoplasty (for open-angle glaucoma) – opens clogged drainage channels.
- Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (for acute angle-closure glaucoma) – relieves pressure buildup.
Surgical Procedures:
- Trabeculectomy – creating a drainage opening in the eye.
- Drainage implants (tubes) – to release excess fluid.
- Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) – less invasive option for suitable cases.

Treatment plans are tailored by our specialists depending on your type and stage of glaucoma.

Preventing Glaucoma Complications

Schedule regular eye check-ups, especially if you are over 40 or have risk factors.
Manage systemic conditions like diabetes and hypertension.
Avoid self-medication with corticosteroid eye drops without supervision.
Seek urgent care if you notice sudden vision changes or severe eye pain.