Glaucoma in Early Age: A Silent Threat to Young Eyes

When we hear the word glaucoma, we usually think of it as an “older adult’s disease”—something that only begins to appear after age 60. But the reality is quite different. Glaucoma can affect people at any age, including young adults, teenagers, and even infants. Known as the “silent thief of sight,” glaucoma often progresses without symptoms until irreversible vision loss has occurred.

At RetinaCare Dubai, Dr. Vasu, a leading retinal and glaucoma specialist, is committed to diagnosing and managing glaucoma at all stages of life. With advanced diagnostic tools and patient-centered care, RetinaCare offers hope and clarity for those facing glaucoma at a younger age.

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, which connects the eye to the brain. This damage is most often caused by high intraocular pressure (IOP), but it can also occur with normal eye pressure.

The most common types include:

  • Open-angle glaucoma – develops slowly and painlessly
  • Angle-closure glaucoma – can occur suddenly and requires emergency treatment
  • Congenital or juvenile glaucoma – present at birth or develops in childhood or adolescence.

Without timely treatment, glaucoma can cause permanent vision loss—and once lost, vision cannot be restored.

Causes of Early-Onset Glaucoma

Glaucoma in younger individuals can occur for a variety of reasons:

  • Genetic Predisposition: If a close family member has glaucoma, your risk increases—even at a younger age.
  • Congenital or Juvenile Glaucoma: Some children are born with glaucoma, or develop it during adolescence due to abnormal eye development.
  • Eye Injury or Trauma:Sports injuries, accidents, or surgeries can increase eye pressure and trigger glaucoma.
  • Steroid Use: Prolonged use of steroid medications (topical, oral, or inhaled) can raise eye pressure and lead to glaucoma.

Other Eye Conditions: High myopia (nearsightedness), uveitis (inflammation inside the eye), and retinal conditions can increase glaucoma risk.

Symptoms in Younger Patients

One of the biggest challenges with early-onset glaucoma is that it often shows no symptoms until vision is already affected. However, some warning signs include:

    • Gradual loss of side (peripheral) vision
    • Halos around lights
    • Eye pain or redness (in acute cases)Blurred or tunnel vision
    • Frequent headaches or nausea (in angle-closure glaucoma)

Because vision loss is gradual and painless, many young people may not realize there’s a problem until it’s too late.

Can It Be Treated?

Yes—and the key is early detection.

While vision lost due to glaucoma cannot be reversed, further damage can be prevented through treatments such as:

    • Prescription eye drops to reduce eye pressure
    • Oral medications in some cases
    • Laser treatments to improve fluid drainage
    • Surgery for more severe or unresponsive cases

At RetinaCare Dubai, Dr. Vasu customizes each patient’s treatment plan using the latest advancements in glaucoma care, ensuring the best possible outcomes.

Why Early Screening Matters

Young individuals, especially those with risk factors like a family history, diabetes, high myopia, or prior eye trauma, should have regular eye exams starting as early as their 20s. Glaucoma doesn’t wait for retirement age—it can quietly damage vision in the prime of life.

Trust Your Eyes to Dr. Vasu at RetinaCare Dubai

Dr. Vasu brings extensive experience and cutting-edge expertise to the early detection and management of glaucoma in patients of all ages. At RetinaCare Dubai, you’ll find:

    • State-of-the-art diagnostic tools
    • Advanced treatment options tailored to younger patients
    • Compassionate care that prioritizes your long-term vision and eye health
    • A welcoming clinic environment right in the heart of Dubai
Don’t Let Glaucoma Steal Your Sight — Act Early

If you’re experiencing vision changes—or even if you’re not—a comprehensive eye exam can make all the difference. Glaucoma doesn’t always come with warning signs, but a timely diagnosis can help preserve your vision for life.

Book your glaucoma screening today with Dr. Vasu at RetinaCare Dubai. Protect your vision—before it’s too late.

Dr. Vasu Kumar, Best Eye Specialist in Dubai

Meet Dr. Vasu Kumar, the best eye specialist in Dubai and the best Indian ophthalmologist in Dubai is retina specialist in Dubai who is heading the Department of Ophthalmology at NMC Royal Hospital. He became a leading Indian eye specialist in Dubai with his expertise in Advanced Vitreo-retina surgery and microincision Cataract surgery. If you are seeking the best Indian eye specialist or the best Ophthalmologist in Dubai, you have come at the right place.

At the heart of Dr. Vasu Kumar’s practice lies a steadfast commitment to providing exceptional care and tailored treatment plans to enhance your vision and maintain optimal eye health. His unwavering dedication to improving the lives of his patients is a testament to his expertise in ophthalmology.