Steroid Overuse and the Silent Rise of Secondary Glaucoma

Steroids remain essential and _ life-saving medications when used appropriately. The danger lies in their misuse and unsupervised use. Increasing awareness, responsible prescribing, and timely screening can prevent thousands from losing vision unnecessarily.

- Dr. Hareesh K V

A Common Medicine, An Overlooked Danger

Steroids are widely used to treat allergies, skin disorders, breathing problems, and eye irritation. Often seen as quick and effective solutions, they are easily available and frequently used without medical supervision. However, ophthalmologists across India are increasingly warning that prolonged or unsupervised steroid use is emerging as a major trigger for secondary glaucoma, a sight-threatening condition that can cause irreversible blindness.

Steroids—whether taken as tablets, inhalers, skin creams, or eye drops—can raise intraocular pressure when used for extended periods. What makes this especially dangerous is that the rise in eye pressure usually occurs without early symptoms. Patients often feel normal while the optic nerve sustains permanent damage.

India's Growing Glaucoma Burden

India already bears a significant share of the global glaucoma burden. An estimated 12-13 million people in the country are living with glaucoma, accounting for nearly one-sixth of cases worldwide. Globally, glaucoma affects around 75-80 million people, with projections suggesting the number will exceed 110 million by 2040.