GLAUCOMA

 

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, leading to gradual vision loss and potential blindness. It is often caused by increased intraocular pressure (IOP) due to fluid buildup in the eye. Glaucoma develops slowly and may not show early symptoms, making regular eye exams crucial for early detection.

Causes of Glaucoma

1. Increased Eye Pressure (IOP) – A buildup of aqueous humor (fluid inside the eye) can raise pressure and damage the optic nerve.
2. Genetics – Family history of glaucoma increases the risk.
3. Age – More common in people over 40, with risk increasing as age progresses.
4. Medical Conditions – Diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease can contribute to glaucoma.
5. Eye Injury or Surgery – Trauma to the eye can lead to increased pressure.
6. Prolonged Steroid Use – Long-term use of corticosteroids (eye drops or pills) can raise IOP.

Types of Glaucoma

1. Open-Angle Glaucoma (Most Common) –

   • Develops slowly and painlessly over time.
   • The drainage system in the eye (trabecular meshwork) becomes less efficient, causing gradual vision loss.

2. Angle-Closure Glaucoma (Medical Emergency) –

   • Occurs suddenly when the drainage angle is blocked, leading to rapid eye pressure rise.
   • Symptoms include severe eye pain, nausea, blurred vision, and halos around lights.

3. Normal-Tension Glaucoma –

   • Damage to the optic nerve occurs even with normal eye pressure.
   • Believed to be related to poor blood flow to the optic nerve.

4. Congenital Glaucoma (Childhood Glaucoma) –

   • A rare condition present at birth due to abnormal eye development.
   • Symptoms include excessive tearing, cloudy cornea, and light sensitivity.

Symptoms of Glaucoma

• Open-Angle Glaucoma:

  • Gradual loss of peripheral (side) vision
  • Tunnel vision in advanced stages
  • No pain or noticeable symptoms in the early stages

• Angle-Closure Glaucoma (Emergency):

  • Severe eye pain and headache
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Sudden blurred vision
  • Seeing halos around lights

Diagnosis of Glaucoma

An eye doctor performs several tests to diagnose glaucoma:

• Tonometry – Measures intraocular pressure (IOP).
• Ophthalmoscopy – Examines the optic nerve for signs of damage.
• Perimetry (Visual Field Test) – Detects blind spots in peripheral vision.
• Gonioscopy – Checks the drainage angle of the eye.

Treatment Options for Glaucoma

There is no cure for glaucoma, but early treatment can slow or stop vision loss.

1. Eye Drops – First-line treatment to lower eye pressure.
2. Oral Medications – Helps reduce fluid production in the eye.
3. Laser Therapy (Trabeculoplasty or Iridotomy) – Improves drainage to lower eye pressure.
4. Surgery (Trabeculectomy, Drainage Implants) – Creates a new drainage channel for fluid to exit.

Importance of Regular Eye Examinations

Since glaucoma often has no early symptoms, routine eye exams are essential to detect and manage the condition before vision loss occurs. People over 40, diabetics, and those with a family history should have regular glaucoma screenings.