Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, often associated with increased intraocular pressure (IOP). It is one of the leading causes of irreversible vision loss worldwide. Early detection and timely management are crucial to prevent permanent vision impairment.

Understanding Glaucoma

The optic nerve transmits visual information from the eye to the brain. Increased pressure within the eye can damage this nerve, leading to progressive vision loss. Glaucoma often develops slowly and painlessly, making regular eye examinations essential for early detection.

Types of Glaucoma

• Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma: The most common type, characterized by gradual optic nerve damage with no early symptoms.
• Angle-Closure Glaucoma: Occurs when the drainage angle of the eye becomes blocked, causing sudden rise in eye pressure. This is a medical emergency.
• Normal-Tension Glaucoma: Optic nerve damage occurs despite normal eye pressure, often requiring close monitoring.
• Secondary Glaucoma: Caused by other eye conditions, trauma, medications, or systemic diseases.

Risk Factors

• Age above 40 years.
• Family history of glaucoma.
• High intraocular pressure or eye injuries.
• Medical conditions such as diabetes or hypertension.
• Prolonged use of corticosteroid medications.

Diagnosis and Evaluation

Early diagnosis is essential to prevent irreversible vision loss. Glaucoma evaluation includes:

• Measurement of intraocular pressure (tonometry).
• Assessment of the optic nerve through fundus examination.
• Visual field testing to detect peripheral vision loss.
• Imaging techniques such as OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) to monitor nerve fiber layer thickness.

Treatment Options

While vision lost to glaucoma cannot be restored, timely treatment can slow or stop disease progression. Treatment options include:

• Medications: Eye drops or oral medications to lower intraocular pressure.
• Laser Therapy: Procedures like selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) to improve fluid drainage and reduce eye pressure.
• Surgical Intervention: Procedures such as trabeculectomy or glaucoma drainage devices to control intraocular pressure when medications are insufficient.

Benefits of Glaucoma Management

• Prevention of further vision loss and blindness.
• Preservation of peripheral and central vision.
• Maintenance of independence and quality of life.
• Long-term monitoring ensures timely intervention for disease progression.

Safety and Success Rate

Glaucoma management is highly safe and effective when detected early and treated appropriately. Modern medications, laser therapies, and surgical techniques allow most patients to maintain functional vision and prevent irreversible optic nerve damage, ensuring long-term eye health.