What is Glaucoma?

• Definition: A condition characterized by damage to the optic nerve, often associated with elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), leading to vision loss.
• Types:
  • Open-Angle Glaucoma: The most common form, where the eye’s drainage canals become clogged over time.
  • Angle-Closure Glaucoma: Occurs when the drainage angle is blocked suddenly, leading to rapid increase in eye pressure.
  • Normal-Tension Glaucoma: Optic nerve damage occurs despite normal eye pressure levels.
  • Secondary Glaucoma: Resulting from other medical conditions or eye injuries.

Symptoms to Watch For

• Gradual Vision Loss: Often peripheral vision is affected first, leading to tunnel vision.
• Eye Pain: Particularly in acute angle-closure glaucoma, which may be accompanied by nausea and vomiting.
• Headaches: Frequent or severe headaches, especially around the eyes.
• Halos Around Lights: Seeing rainbow-colored circles around lights, a common symptom of acute glaucoma.
• Blurred Vision: Difficulty seeing clearly, particularly in low light.

Risk Factors

• Family History: A family history of glaucoma increases the risk of developing the condition.
• Age: Risk increases with age, particularly after age 40.
• Ethnicity: Higher prevalence in African-Americans and people of Asian descent.
• High Intraocular Pressure: Elevated pressure within the eye is a major risk factor.
• Medical Conditions: Conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and hypothyroidism can increase risk.
• Use of Corticosteroids: Long-term use of steroid medications can elevate eye pressure.

Our Diagnostic Approach

• Comprehensive Eye Examination: Includes testing for intraocular pressure and assessing overall eye health.
• Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): Provides detailed images of the optic nerve and retinal nerve fiber layer to detect damage.
• Visual Field Testing: Measures the full range of vision to identify any loss of peripheral vision.
• Gonioscopy: Examines the drainage angle of the eye to determine if it is open or closed.
• Pachymetry: Measures the thickness of the cornea, as corneal thickness can affect glaucoma risk.

Effective Treatments We Offer

• Medications: Prescription eye drops or oral medications to lower intraocular pressure and slow disease progression.
• Laser Therapy: Laser treatments, such as laser trabeculoplasty, to improve fluid drainage and lower eye pressure.
• Surgical Procedures: Advanced surgical options, including trabeculectomy or drainage implants, to create a new drainage pathway for aqueous humor.
• Regular Monitoring: Ongoing assessments to track disease progression and adjust treatment as needed.

Prevention and Management Tips

• Regular Eye Exams: Essential for early detection and management of glaucoma, especially if you have risk factors.
• Medication Adherence: Consistently using prescribed medications to maintain controlled intraocular pressure.
• Lifestyle Adjustments: Maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoiding excessive caffeine can support overall eye health.
• Protective Eyewear: Wear protective eyewear during activities that pose a risk of eye injury to prevent secondary glaucoma.

Book Your Appointment

If you’re at risk for glaucoma or experiencing symptoms, don’t wait to seek expert care. Contact Nav Drishti Eye Centre to schedule a comprehensive eye exam with our specialists. We’re here to provide you with the highest standard of care and support for maintaining your vision and eye health.