What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a condition that damages the optic nerve, which is essential for good vision. This damage often happens because of high pressure in the eye, known as intraocular pressure (IOP). If not treated, glaucoma can lead to vision loss or blindness.
Types of Glaucoma
- Open-Angle Glaucoma: This is the most common form. It occurs when the drainage canals in the eye become less effective over time, causing increased eye pressure. This type develops slowly and often doesn’t have noticeable symptoms until significant vision loss occurs.
- Angle-Closure Glaucoma: This type happens when the angle between the iris and the cornea becomes too narrow, blocking fluid drainage. It can occur suddenly and is a medical emergency. Symptoms may include severe headache, nausea, and sudden changes in vision.
- Normal-Tension Glaucoma: In this form, damage to the optic nerve occurs even though eye pressure is normal. The exact cause is not fully understood but may involve reduced blood flow to the optic nerve.
- Secondary Glaucoma: This type results from other conditions, such as eye injuries, inflammation, or certain medications.
Risk Factors
Several factors can increase the chances of developing glaucoma:
- Age: People over 60 are at greater risk.
- Family History: If someone in your family has had glaucoma, you may be more likely to develop it.
- Ethnicity: Certain groups, like African Americans and Hispanics, are at a higher risk.
- Health Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure can increase risk.
- Eye Injuries: Previous eye injuries can also lead to glaucoma.
Symptoms of Glaucoma
Many people with glaucoma may not notice symptoms until the condition is advanced. Common signs include:
- Gradual loss of side (peripheral) vision
- Tunnel vision in later stages
- Sudden eye pain or headaches (especially in angle-closure glaucoma)
- Nausea and vomiting (in cases of angle-closure glaucoma)
- Blurred vision
Diagnosing Glaucoma
At Sri Nirwana Netralaya Eye Hospitals, our specialists will perform a detailed eye exam to diagnose glaucoma. This may include:
- Comprehensive Eye Exam: We’ll check your vision and measure your eye pressure.
- Optic Nerve Assessment: Using special tools, we’ll look at the health of your optic nerve.
- Visual Field Test: This test checks your side vision to see if there’s any loss.
Treatment Options
There is no cure for glaucoma, but early detection and treatment can help manage it and prevent further vision loss. Treatment options may include:
- Medications: Eye drops are often prescribed to lower eye pressure.
- Laser Treatment: This can help improve fluid drainage from the eye.
- Surgery: In more serious cases, surgery may be necessary to create a new drainage channel.
Preventing Glaucoma
While you can’t completely prevent glaucoma, regular eye exams can help catch it early. If you are at higher risk, your doctor may suggest more frequent check-ups.
Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that needs attention and management. At Sri Nirwana Netralaya Eye Hospitals, we are here to provide the best care for your eye health. If you have concerns about glaucoma or any changes in your vision, contact us today to schedule an appointment.
Early detection is crucial for protecting your sight!
