1. Introduction to Glaucoma

Glaucoma refers to a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, typically due to elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). This progressive damage leads to vision loss, starting with peripheral vision and advancing to complete blindness if untreated.

Over 76 million people worldwide are affected by glaucoma, with India accounting for nearly 12 million cases. Sadly, many remain undiagnosed, as the disease often progresses silently.

2. What Causes Glaucoma?

Glaucoma develops when the eye’s drainage system becomes inefficient, causing a buildup of aqueous humor fluid. This leads to increased IOP, which damages the optic nerve.

Types of Glaucoma and Their Causes

• Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG): The most common form, caused by clogged drainage canals.
• Angle-Closure Glaucoma (ACG): The angle between the cornea and iris narrows, restricting fluid drainage.
• Normal-Tension Glaucoma: Optic nerve damage occurs even with normal IOP, often linked to vascular factors.
• Secondary Glaucoma: Caused by trauma, steroid use, or underlying conditions like diabetes.

Risk Factors

• Age (over 40 for open-angle; over 60 for angle-closure).
• Family history.
• Medical conditions like diabetes and hypertension.
• Prolonged use of corticosteroids.
• Eye injuries or surgeries.

3. Recognizing the Symptoms

Glaucoma’s early stages are often symptomless, making regular eye exams crucial.

By Type:

• Open-Angle Glaucoma: Gradual loss of peripheral vision, difficulty seeing in dim light.
• Angle-Closure Glaucoma: Sudden onset of severe pain, blurry vision, halos around lights, and nausea.

Late-stage symptoms include significant vision impairment and tunnel vision.

4. How Is Glaucoma Diagnosed?

Timely diagnosis is essential for preventing vision loss.

Diagnostic Methods:

1. Tonometry: Measures IOP to identify elevated pressure.
2. Visual Field Tests: Detects blind spots and peripheral vision loss.
3. Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): Provides detailed images of the optic nerve and retinal layers.

Advanced tools like AI-powered screening systems enhance accuracy and enable earlier detection.

5. Treatment Options for Glaucoma

Treatment aims to lower IOP and prevent further optic nerve damage.

Medications

Eye drops such as prostaglandins and beta-blockers reduce fluid production or increase outflow. In severe cases, oral medications may be prescribed.

Laser Treatments

• Trabeculoplasty: Improves drainage in open-angle glaucoma.
• Iridotomy: Creates an opening in the iris for fluid outflow in angle-closure glaucoma.

Surgical Interventions

• Trabeculectomy: Creates a new drainage pathway.
• Drainage Implants: Inserts devices to redirect fluid.
• MIGS (Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery): Offers safer, less invasive options with quicker recovery times.

Complementary Care

Lifestyle changes like a healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress management can improve outcomes.

6. Prevention and Living with Glaucoma

Glaucoma can’t be cured, but early detection and management can preserve vision.

Prevention Tips:

• Annual eye exams for high-risk groups.
• Managing diabetes, hypertension, and other risk factors.
• Protecting eyes from injuries and UV exposure.

Living with Glaucoma:

• Adapt to vision changes with assistive devices.
• Stay consistent with treatments.
• Seek support through counseling and community resources.

7. Why Choose CSR Eye Hospital for Glaucoma Care?

At CSR Eye Hospital, we combine cutting-edge technology with compassionate care to detect and treat glaucoma early. Our specialists use advanced diagnostic tools and tailor treatment plans to individual needs, ensuring optimal outcomes.

Your vision is precious—don’t wait for symptoms. Book a consultation with CSR Eye Hospital today!