In honor of World Glaucoma Week 2023, celebrated annually during the second week of March, the Excellence Center for Glaucoma, Department of Ophthalmology at Chulalongkorn University, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, and the Thai Glaucoma Society urge individuals worldwide to recognize the importance of glaucoma as the leading cause of irreversible blindness. Unfortunately, over 2 million individuals in Thailand suffer from this condition.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Visanee Tantisevi of the Department of Ophthalmology at Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital shared valuable insight into this eye condition. Glaucoma is characterized by the gradual damage to the optic nerve and adjacent fibers, leading to optic atrophy, blurred vision, and ultimately blindness, in absence of appropriate treatment. While high pressure within the eye is a common risk factor, individuals with low eye pressure may also be at risk for glaucoma due to other underlying factors. It is frequently asymptomatic and is commonly detected through routine check-ups or inadvertently. Unfortunately, by the time patients begin to experience symptoms, including loss of eyesight, glaucoma may have already progressed to an advanced stage.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Visanee Tantisevi emphasized the importance of taking prophylactic measures. Those with an elevated risk of glaucoma, including individuals over 40 years of age, those with a family history of the condition, those diagnosed with extreme near- or farsightedness or have been in eye accidents, and individuals using steroids, should schedule regular ophthalmologist check-ups at least once annually to identify glaucoma early. Early detection enhances the prospects of successful treatment, preventing progressive damage to the optic nerve that can lead to blindness.
While there are numerous methods of glaucoma treatment and control, such as pressure-reducing eye drops, laser treatments, and surgical interventions, other preferred treatments such as supplements, herbs, and hard eye massage treatments are currently not accepted within the medical community due to insufficient empirical evidence. It is therefore critical to exercise caution in treating and caring for one’s eyes, and consult an ophthalmologist at the first sign of possible glaucoma symptoms.
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the Glaucoma Center at Chulalongkorn University’s Department of Ophthalmology provided free public glaucoma screenings, primarily targeting individuals at risk for the condition. Meanwhile, more information about King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital and updates on its public health initiatives is readily available on its official website and Facebook page. Those seeking glaucoma treatment and diagnoses can reach out to their nearest hospital or call +66 2256-4000.
