Glaucoma Risks for High Myopia Patients: Key Insights

Q: Glaucoma Risks for High Myopia Patients: Key Insights

Hello Jun： 1. Please continue to monitor your condition, and if there are any changes in your vision, treatment may be necessary. 2. Chronic glaucoma is a long-term condition that often presents with few symptoms. However, if there is a sudden significant

Suspected glaucoma?

I have high myopia of 800-900 diopters and underwent an eye examination.
My intraocular pressure readings were around 17, 19, 20, and 21 mmHg, and my corneal thickness was 560 and 570 micrometers.
My corrected vision is 1.0, and the visual field test was normal.
There was a small red area in the macula and the optic nerve.
Some doctors mentioned that I might develop glaucoma in the future, while others said there is no glaucoma or only a suspicion of it.

I have the following questions:
1.
Is there a need for preventive glaucoma medication due to my high myopia?
2.
Can glaucoma transition from chronic to acute, or from acute to chronic?
3.
After a sexual encounter on March 23, I experienced a sudden onset of redness and slight swelling in one eye, with no halos and blurred vision, but it improved after resting for a night.
Should I be concerned about the possibility of developing glaucoma, either chronic or acute, within a month?

Jun, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/03/24

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello Jun:
1.
Please continue to monitor your condition, and if there are any changes in your vision, treatment may be necessary.

2.
Chronic glaucoma is a long-term condition that often presents with few symptoms.
However, if there is a sudden significant increase in intraocular pressure, it can lead to discomfort and complications, which is referred to as an acute attack.
Once the attack is alleviated, it becomes chronic.

3.
Sometimes, symptoms may simply be due to eye fatigue and congestion, and do not necessarily indicate glaucoma.
Continued monitoring is essential, as an attack may not occur.

At the E-Hospital in Puzi, Taiwan, the ophthalmology department is available:
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and Wednesday from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM.

Online responses should only be used as a reference; it is necessary to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility if needed.
I hope to have the opportunity to serve you.

Gao Pilin

Reply Date: 2021/03/24

More Info

Understanding glaucoma risks in patients with high myopia is crucial, as these individuals are at a higher risk for developing various eye conditions, including glaucoma. High myopia, defined as a refractive error greater than -6.00 diopters, can lead to structural changes in the eye that may predispose patients to glaucoma. Here are some key insights regarding your concerns:
1. Need for Preventive Treatment: Given your high myopia and the fact that your intraocular pressure (IOP) readings are in the range of 17 to 21 mmHg, it is essential to monitor your eye health closely. While your current IOP is not alarmingly high, the risk of developing glaucoma is increased in high myopia patients. Preventive treatment, such as the use of glaucoma eye drops, is typically not recommended unless there are clear signs of glaucoma or elevated IOP consistently above normal levels. Your ophthalmologist will consider factors such as the health of your optic nerve, visual field tests, and the presence of any structural changes in the eye before making a recommendation.

2. Nature of Glaucoma: Glaucoma can present in various forms. Chronic glaucoma, often referred to as open-angle glaucoma, develops slowly and may not present noticeable symptoms until significant damage has occurred. Acute glaucoma, or angle-closure glaucoma, can occur suddenly and is characterized by severe symptoms such as eye pain, headache, nausea, and visual disturbances. It is possible for a patient to experience an acute episode that may transition into a chronic condition if not treated promptly. Regular monitoring and comprehensive eye exams are vital to detect any changes early.

3. Concerns Following Physical Activity: The incident you described, where you experienced redness and mild swelling in one eye after sexual activity, could be due to a variety of benign causes, such as increased pressure in the eye or minor trauma. However, it is essential to remain vigilant, especially given your history of high myopia. If the symptoms resolve quickly and do not recur, it may not indicate a serious issue. However, if you experience persistent symptoms, such as blurred vision or increased redness, it is advisable to seek immediate medical attention.
In summary, while high myopia does increase the risk of glaucoma, the decision to initiate preventive treatment should be based on a comprehensive evaluation by your eye care professional. Regular eye examinations, including IOP measurements, visual field tests, and imaging of the optic nerve, are crucial in monitoring your eye health. Maintaining open communication with your ophthalmologist about any changes in your vision or eye health is essential for timely intervention and management.
Additionally, lifestyle factors such as maintaining a healthy diet, managing stress, and ensuring adequate sleep can contribute positively to your overall eye health. If you have any further concerns or symptoms, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for personalized advice and treatment options.

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