Glaucoma Treatment

Causes and Risk Factors of Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, often due to increased pressure in the eye (intraocular pressure). This damage can lead to vision loss and blindness if untreated. Common causes include poor drainage of aqueous fluid, overproduction of fluid, or injury to the eye. Risk factors include age (over 60), family history, high eye pressure, thin corneas, diabetes, hypertension, and prolonged use of corticosteroid medications.

Types Of Glaucoma

• Chronic Glaucoma (Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma): The most common form, where the drainage angle remains open, but the eye’s drainage channels become less efficient over time, leading to gradual pressure buildup.
• Acute Glaucoma (Angle-Closure Glaucoma): Occurs when the drainage angle suddenly becomes blocked, causing a rapid increase in eye pressure. This is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention.
• Normal Tension Glaucoma: Optic nerve damage occurs despite normal intraocular pressure. It may be linked to poor blood flow to the optic nerve.
• Secondary Glaucoma: Results from other medical conditions like diabetes, eye injuries, inflammation, or the use of certain medications.
• Childhood Glaucoma (Congenital Glaucoma): A rare form present at birth or developing early in life, often due to improper development of the eye’s drainage system.

Symptoms Of Glaucoma

• Gradual loss of peripheral vision, usually in both eyes
• Tunnel vision in advanced stages
• Severe eye pain (acute glaucoma)
• Nausea and vomiting (accompanying severe eye pain)
• Sudden onset of visual disturbances, often in low light
• Blurred vision
• Halos around lights
• Redness in the eye

Early detection is crucial, as many forms of glaucoma develop without noticeable symptoms until significant vision loss occurs. Regular eye exams are essential for early diagnosis and treatment.

What Types Of Treatment Are Performed For Glaucoma?

Most cases of open angle glaucoma can be controlled with anti-glaucoma eye drops. Some cases may need additional treatment with the laser or drainage surgery. Acute closed angle glaucoma patients will need urgent medical as well as surgical attention.

Glaucoma Screening & Testing

Glaucoma screening involves checking the eye pressures, the anterior chamber angles (drainage angles – whether they are open/ narrow /closed), visual fields tests, and optical coherence tomography (OCT) of the optic nerve head.