It goes by many names; childhood glaucoma, juvenile glaucoma, congenital glaucoma, paediatric or infantile glaucoma. This form of glaucoma occurs in children and is often diagnosed within the first year of life.
Childhood glaucoma is a rare condition that can be inherited or caused by incorrect development before birth in the eye’s drainage system. This incorrect development leads to increased intraocular pressure that damages the optic nerves. Early detection through regular check-ups is the key to protecting the child’s vision from extensive damage.
Symptoms
- Enlarged eyes
- Excessive tearing
- Sensitivity to light (photosensitivity)
- Cloudiness of the cornea
Treatment
Surgery can correct issues like structural defects. Sometimes, both medication and surgery are required. Topical eye drops and oral medication can be applied to either increase the exit of fluids from the eye or decrease fluid production inside the eye. Either way will result in lower eye pressure.
There are two main types of surgery for childhood glaucoma:
Filtering surgery: Also known as microsurgery, this procedure uses small surgical tools to create a drainage canal in the eyes.
Laser surgery: A small, powerful beam of light is used to make a small opening in the eye tissue.
Living with Glaucoma
While any vision lost cannot be restored, the remaining vision can be optimised. Thousands of children live full healthy lives with glaucoma. Children need to be encouraged to practise self-care and do things by themselves so they can live independent lives.
How can we help:
Glaucoma not only affects children but people from all age groups. And unlike children, glaucoma in children has no signs. To celebrate World Glaucoma Week we will be having:
Free eye screening from Monday 9th to Friday 13th of March 2020.
This screening is open to all ages so please come with your family and friends to our hospital at No. 12, Salawu Street, Ojuelegba, Lagos.
We are open all week from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm.
Feel free to contact us for more information. You can also send us a message on Facebook or Instagram.
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