Disease
Glaucoma
Overview of Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a progressive eye disease that silently damages the optic nerve and is often due to high intraocular pressure. It is a leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. The condition can develop slowly without noticeable symptoms, it makes regular eye check ups essential. Many people search “what is glaucoma” or “what causes glaucoma” only after some vision is already lost. Early detection and treatment can help protect your vision for life.
Types of Glaucoma
- Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma: Most common slow progression, painless often unnoticed.
- Angle-Closure Glaucoma: Sudden blockage of eye drainage which is very painful and requires urgent care.
- Normal-Tension Glaucoma: Optic nerve damage occurs despite normal eye pressure.
- Secondary Glaucoma: Caused by eye injury, inflammation or other conditions.
- Congenital Glaucoma: A rare type that affects infants and young children.
Symptoms of Glaucoma
- Gradual loss of peripheral (side) vision and often unnoticed in early stages.
- Blurred or cloudy central vision in advanced stages.
- Seeing halos or rainbow-colored rings around lights.
- Severe eye pain, headache, nausea (common in angle-closure glaucoma).
- Redness of the eye with decreased vision.
- High eye pressure symptoms like discomfort and visual disturbances.
Causes of Glaucoma
- Increased intraocular pressure due to blocked eye fluid drainage.
- Family history or inherited optic nerve sensitivity.
- Previous eye injuries or surgeries.
- Chronic eye conditions such as uveitis or retinal detachment.
- Long-term use of steroid medications.
- Other systemic diseases like diabetes or hypertension.
Complications in Glaucoma
- Permanent damage to the optic nerve.
- Irreversible vision loss or complete blindness.
- Difficulty with night vision and contrast sensitivity.
- Increased risk of accidents due to limited peripheral vision.
- Psychological impact including anxiety and depression from vision loss.
Risk Factors of Glaucoma
- Age over 40, especially after 60.
- Family history of glaucoma disease.
- African, Hispanic or Asian ethnic background.
- Existing medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease or migraines.
- Prolonged use of corticosteroid medications.
- History of high intraocular pressure or eye trauma.
Preventions of Glaucoma
- Get regular comprehensive eye exams, especially if you are over 40.
- Manage health conditions like diabetes and hypertension.
- Avoid unnecessary or prolonged steroid use.
- Protect your eyes from injuries during sports or work.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle including regular exercise and a balanced diet.
Diagnosis of Glaucoma
- Tonometry: Measures eye pressure (IOP).
- Ophthalmoscopy: Assesses the optic nerve for damage.
- Visual Field Testing: Detects loss of peripheral vision.
- Pachymetry: Measures corneal thickness.
- Gonioscopy: Examines the angle between iris and cornea for drainage issues.
- OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography): Advanced scan to monitor nerve fiber loss.
Treatments of Glaucoma
- Medicated eye drops to reduce eye pressure and slow progression.
- Oral medications used in some cases to support eye pressure control.
- Laser procedures such as trabeculoplasty or iridotomy for better fluid drainage.
- Surgical options including trabeculectomy or glaucoma drainage devices for severe cases.
- Regular follow-ups to monitor eye pressure and prevent further damage.
- Lifestyle advice for managing stress and maintaining eye health.
Prognosis of Glaucoma
- Early diagnosis and treatment can slow or prevent further vision loss.
- Vision already lost to glaucoma cannot be recovered.
- With lifelong care, many patients maintain good quality of life.
- Adherence to medication and regular check-ups is key to preserving sight.
Care at MyhealthMydoctor
- Connects patients with top glaucoma specialists across leading hospitals.
- Helps arrange advanced diagnostic tests and customised treatment plans.
- Offers assistance with travel, stay and follow-up appointments.
- Supports patients with second opinions for complex glaucoma cases.
- Personal patient care managers for end to end guidance and comfort.
Some Important Questions Patients Should Ask Their Doctor During a Consultation
- How serious is my glaucoma and what stage am I in?
- Can I go blind if I stop using my eye drops?
- Is laser surgery safe and permanent?
- What is the difference between high eye pressure and glaucoma?
- How often should I have my eyes checked?
- Will my vision get better after treatment?
- Can glaucoma be reversed with diet or natural remedies?
What Patients Expect from Doctors During Consultation?
- Clear explanation of your glaucoma symptoms and diagnosis.
- Personalised treatment plan using latest medications or procedures.
- Honest guidance about treatment options and what to expect.
- Monitoring plan with regular eye pressure and vision tests.
- Advice on protecting remaining vision and improving quality of life.