What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is an eye disease that affects the optic nerve, which is responsible for transmitting visual information from the eye to the brain. It is often characterized by increased pressure within the eye (intraocular pressure), which can lead to damage and deterioration of the optic nerve fibers over time. If left untreated, glaucoma can eventually result in permanent vision loss and even blindness
Glaucoma is often referred to as the "silent thief of sight" because it can progress without obvious symptoms until significant vision loss occurs. Regular eye examinations are crucial, especially for individuals over the age of 40 or those with a family history of glaucoma, to detect and manage the condition early.
Symptoms
The condition typically progresses slowly, and many people may not be aware they have glaucoma until they experience significant vision loss. However, as the disease advances, certain signs and symptoms may become apparent. It's important to note that the symptoms can vary depending on the type of glaucoma. Here are some common symptoms associated with glaucoma:
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Gradual loss of peripheral vision: Glaucoma often affects peripheral vision first, causing a gradual decrease in the ability to see objects or people on the sides of your visual field.
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Tunnel vision: As the disease progresses, the loss of peripheral vision may become more pronounced, leading to a condition called tunnel vision, where the person can only see objects directly in front of them.
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Blurred or hazy vision: Vision may become blurred or hazy, particularly during the early stages of glaucoma.
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Halos around lights: Some individuals with glaucoma may notice halos or circles of light around bright lights, especially at night.
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Increased sensitivity to light: Glaucoma can cause heightened sensitivity to light (photophobia).
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Eye pain or discomfort: Angle-closure glaucoma, a less common but more acute form of the disease, can cause sudden and severe eye pain, headache, nausea, and vomiting.
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Redness in the eye: In some cases, glaucoma may lead to redness in the eye due to increased pressure.
Treatments
The treatment for glaucoma aims to lower the intraocular pressure (IOP) to prevent or slow down the damage to the optic nerve. The specific treatment plan will depend on the type and severity of glaucoma. Here are some common treatments for glaucoma:
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Eye Drops: Medications in the form of eye drops are typically the first line of treatment for glaucoma. These eye drops work by either reducing the production of aqueous humor (the fluid inside the eye) or improving its drainage to lower the IOP. Patients may need to use these eye drops once or multiple times a day, as prescribed by their eye care professional.
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Oral Medications: In some cases, oral medications may be prescribed in addition to or instead of eye drops to reduce intraocular pressure. These medications work by different mechanisms and may be used when eye drops are not sufficient or well-tolerated.
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Laser Therapy: There are several laser procedures used to treat glaucoma, including:
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Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT): This procedure uses a laser to target and improve the drainage of fluid in the eye, thus reducing IOP. It is often used as an alternative or adjunct to eye drops.
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Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI): LPI is primarily used to treat angle-closure glaucoma. The laser creates a small hole in the iris to allow the fluid to flow more freely and relieve pressure.
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Cyclophotocoagulation: This laser treatment targets the ciliary body in the eye to reduce fluid production, thus lowering the IOP. It is generally used for severe or advanced glaucoma cases when other treatments are not sufficient.
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Surgery: When eye drops, oral medications, and laser therapies are not effective in controlling glaucoma or if the disease is advanced, surgical intervention may be necessary.
Common FAQ's for Glaucoma
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Who is at risk of developing glaucoma?
People over the age of 60, individuals with a family history of glaucoma, those with elevated intraocular pressure, and individuals of African, Hispanic, or Asian heritage are at higher risk of developing glaucoma. People with certain medical conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure are also at increased risk.
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Is glaucoma preventable?
While glaucoma cannot be completely prevented, early detection and timely treatment can help slow or prevent vision loss. Regular eye exams are crucial, especially for individuals at higher risk of developing glaucoma.
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How is glaucoma treated?
Glaucoma treatment aims to lower intraocular pressure to prevent further optic nerve damage. Treatment options may include eye drops, oral medications, laser trabeculoplasty, glaucoma drainage implants, and conventional surgery.
