What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a set of conditions which results in damage to the optic nerve. The optic nerve is located at the back of the eye, and it transmits visual signals from the eye to the brain helping in visualization. Damage to the optic nerve could result in blindness. In glaucoma, the optic nerve is often damaged by an unusually high pressure exerted on it. This damage to the optic nerve could ultimately result in blindness.

Symptoms of glaucoma

Glaucoma is often referred to as the 'sneak thief of sight' as it can strike without any symptoms. However, some glaucoma patients may suffer symptoms like:

1. Severe eye pain in case of angle closure glaucoma
2. Blurred vision
3. Seeing coloured halos around lights
4. Frequent change of reading glasses

Detection of glaucoma

Periodical eye check-ups are the best way to detect Glaucoma easily. Glaucoma can be detected using five basic tests, they are

1. Visual acuity test
2. Tonometry, to measure the eye pressure
3. Gonioscopy, to assess angles of anterior chamber
4. Evaluation of optic disc damage
5. Perimetry test, for visual field examination
6. Retinal nerve fibre layer analysis

Treatment of glaucoma

Glaucoma cannot be cured, but it can be controlled. Aim of treatment is to reduce eye pressure using eye drops and medicines. In few, laser treatment is given to open up the drainage area for the fluid. In much severe cases, conventional surgery is performed to create a new drainage path

Things to remember about Glaucoma

1. Glaucoma, like diabetes, cannot be cured, only controlled
2. Vision lost due to glaucoma cannot be recovered
3. Early detection and treatment of glaucoma will prevent further loss of sight and blindness
4. It is essential that people above the age of 40 and those with a family history of glaucoma have their eyes examined periodically to detect glaucoma early
5. Once diagnosed as having glaucoma, the patient should be committed for lifelong treatment and periodical eye check-up
6. Drugs prescribed by the doctor should be regularly used at the specified time, to ensure round-the-clock pressure control

Topical non-pad Glaucoma operation (Trabeculotomy) .

1. Visual Field Examination by Automated Perimter
2. Eye pressure examination by
3. Retinal Nerve Fiber Analysis by OCT.
4. Retinal Photograph for C:D Ratio.
5. Gonioscopy