Last Update:18 November 2024 07:00 IST

Treatment of glaucoma in children involves a combination of medical and surgical approaches tailored to the individual needs of the patient.

Glaucoma in children is a serious but often overlooked condition.

Recently, there has been a noticeable increase in glaucoma cases in children. Glaucoma, traditionally seen in adults, is a serious eye condition that damages the optic nerve. It occurs when fluid builds up in the front part of the eye, causing pressure to increase. Glaucoma can affect one or both eyes and can lead to permanent vision impairment if not diagnosed early.

Understanding the importance of early diagnosis, potential interventions and preventative measures can help reduce the impact of this condition on young lives. This helps us diagnose congenital glaucoma, which may be present at birth, infantile glaucoma, which occurs in the first year of life, and juvenile glaucoma, which occurs in children over three years of age. Unlike adult glaucoma, which is often associated with aging and other health conditions, pediatric glaucoma is often associated with genetic mutations, developmental abnormalities, or secondary conditions that affect the eyes or the entire body. Glaucoma may also occur in children as a result of eye injuries. Dr Meena Menon, Consultant, Glaucoma Services, Sankara Eye Hospital shares the growing concern about glaucoma in children.

Why is Awareness Important?

Research reports show that more than 90% of glaucoma cases in the country go undetected, leading to irreversible blindness every year. Therefore, it is important to underline the importance of routine eye examinations that can ensure early diagnosis and preservation of vision. Parents should be educated to perform regular eye exams to detect changes in their child’s vision patterns. Many parents and caregivers are unaware that children can develop glaucoma. This lack of information can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment and irreversible vision loss.

Early Diagnosis May Prevent Permanent Blindness

Parents should take their child to an ophthalmologist if they notice any of the following symptoms:

1. Excessive and frequent unexplained tearing
2. Light sensitivity; Children with glaucoma may experience discomfort in bright light
3. enlarged eyes
4. Cloudy corneas; hazy or cloudy appearance of the cornea
5. Behavior changes; reluctance to engage in visual activities
6. Constant eye rubbing Regular eye examinations are especially important for children with a family history of glaucoma or other risk factors.

   Treatment of glaucoma in children involves a combination of medical and surgical approaches tailored to the individual needs of the patient. Basic strategies include medications such as eye drops or oral medications to reduce intraocular pressure; Consistent application and monitoring are critical to effectiveness. A variety of surgical options, such as trabeculotomy or goniotomy, may be necessary to relieve pressure and preserve vision, and advances in surgical techniques have improved outcomes for pediatric glaucoma.

   Regular monitoring through ongoing follow-up appointments to monitor progress and customize treatment plans is important, including regular eye pressure measurements, visual field tests, and optic nerve evaluations.

   Preventive measures, such as encouraging the use of protective eyewear during activities that pose a risk of eye injury, can prevent traumatic glaucoma.

   Additionally, providing supportive resources such as vision therapy, educational support, and counseling can help children with glaucoma adapt to visual challenges and succeed academically and socially.

   Glaucoma in children is a serious but often overlooked condition. Increased awareness, early diagnosis, and proactive management are critical to preventing blindness and ensuring a better quality of life for affected children. Parents, healthcare providers, and educators must work together to recognize symptoms, seek timely medical advice, and implement appropriate treatments. We can provide a colorful future for our children by prioritizing children’s eye health.