People who frequently bump into door frames or table corners, or struggle to find items right next to them, should be aware that such minor mishaps could be signs of glaucoma, a doctor said.
Glaucoma, a major cause of blindness often dubbed the “silent thief of sight,” usually begins by damaging peripheral vision while central vision remains clear, Tri-Service General Hospital ophthalmologist Lu Da-wen (呂大文) said.
It is difficult for people to notice abnormalities until they start frequently colliding with objects or knocking things over — mishaps often dismissed as signs of fatigue or clumsiness, he said, adding that failure to seek a medical checkup early could mean missing the critical window for treatment.
Photo: Lin Hui-chin, Taipei Times
Glaucoma is no longer a disease exclusive to elderly people, as the number of people with myopia, or short-sightedness, has increased, while excessive use of digital devices has become common, he said, citing the experience of a patient in his late 40s who worked long hours on a computer.
The patient, who reported repeatedly bumping into door frames and table corners, and often knocking over cups at the edge of his desk, had symptoms including pressure and discomfort in the eyes, Lu said.
After initially attributing the symptoms to fatigue from work, the patient sought medical attention, which showed elevated intraocular pressure and peripheral vision loss, Lu said, adding that he was diagnosed with glaucoma.
Glaucoma is a progressive optic neuropathy, with elevated intraocular pressure being a primary risk factor, he said.
Factors such as high myopia, overuse of the eyes and using smartphones in the dark before sleep can increase eye pressure, he said.
Optic nerve damage is irreversible, meaning any vision loss incurred cannot be restored, he said, adding that the goal of treatment is to delay further deterioration and preserve remaining sight.
While eye drops are the traditional method for controlling eye pressure, if people struggle with regular application or if medication is ineffective, doctors might consider further options such as micropulse transscleral laser therapy, he said.
The treatment uses specific laser energy to regulate the production and outflow of aqueous humor to reduce eye pressure, Lu said, adding that continued monitoring of intraocular pressure is necessary.
What makes glaucoma particularly dangerous is that it can worsen without obvious symptoms, he said.
People who frequently bump into objects or notice a narrowing field of vision, as well as those with a family history of glaucoma, high myopia, or the “three highs” — high blood pressure, blood sugar and blood cholesterol — are advised to arrange an eye examination as soon as possible, he said.
People aged 40 or older should undergo a comprehensive vision and intraocular pressure check at least once a year to detect problems early and prevent vision loss from progressing unnoticed, Lu said.
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