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Read MoreGlaucoma affects over 12 million people in India, making it one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness in the country.
Glaucoma affects over 12 million people in India, making it one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness in the country.
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, essential for good vision. This damage is often caused by abnormally high pressure in the eye. It can lead to gradual vision loss and, if untreated, permanent blindness.
Factors Contributing to Glaucoma
Glaucoma often shows no symptoms until significant vision loss has occurred, which is why it is often called the “silent thief of sight.” Regular eye exams are crucial for early detection and prevention of vision loss.
Glaucoma often shows no symptoms until significant vision loss has occurred, which is why it is often called the “silent thief of sight.” Regular eye exams are crucial for early detection and prevention of vision loss.
What Glaucoma Looks Like
Headaches
Feeling of Heaviness
Blurry Vision
Sudden Vision Loss
Understanding the Triggers
Glaucoma is a multifactorial disease, meaning that it can result from various contributing factors.
Understanding the Triggers
Glaucoma is a multifactorial disease, meaning that it can result from various contributing factors.
- Increased Intraocular Pressure (IOP): A primary cause where improper drainage of aqueous humor leads to pressure buildup within the eye.
- Genetics: A family history of glaucoma increases the likelihood of developing the condition.
- Age Related Factors: The risk of glaucoma increases with age, particularly for individuals over 60.
- Medical Conditions: Conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and severe myopia can contribute to the development of glaucoma.
- Eye Injuries: Previous eye injuries or surgeries can increase the risk of glaucoma by affecting the eye's internal structures.
Key Factors Contributing to Glaucoma
Key Factors Contributing to Glaucoma
Intraocular
Pressure
The most significant risk factor for glaucoma. It occurs when the eye's aqueous humor does not drain efficiently, leading to pressure buildup that damages the optic nerve.
Genetic
Predisposition
A family history of glaucoma increases the risk. Genetic mutations inherited from parents can make individuals more susceptible to developing glaucoma.
Medical
Conditions
Certain conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and high myopia are associated with an increased risk of glaucoma affecting overall health of the optic nerve.
Prolonged use of
Corticosteroids
Long-term use of corticosteroid medications can increase eye pressure and risk of glaucoma. These medications can affect the drainage of aqueous humor in the eye.
Recent research highlights the importance of early detection and continuous monitoring in managing glaucoma.
Recent research highlights the importance of early detection and continuous monitoring in managing glaucoma.
Innovations in diagnostic technology and treatment methods are improving patient outcomes and slowing the progression of the disease. Regular eye exams are crucial for early detection and prevention of vision loss.
Diagnosis of Glaucoma
Diagnosing glaucoma involves a thorough and comprehensive eye examination. Early detection is crucial in preventing significant vision loss, and our advanced diagnostic procedures ensure accurate identification and assessment of glaucoma.
At Mahaveer Eye Hospital, we utilize these advanced diagnostic tools to ensure a precise and thorough assessment of glaucoma. Our comprehensive approach allows for early detection and effective management, helping to preserve your vision and maintain your quality of life. If you have risk factors for glaucoma or are experiencing symptoms, schedule a comprehensive eye exam with us today.
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Tonometry
Tonometry is a fundamental test in diagnosing glaucoma. It measures the intraocular pressure (IOP) within the eye.
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Ophthalmoscopy
Ophthalmoscopy allows the ophthalmologist to examine the optic nerve for any signs of damage, which is a hallmark of glaucoma.
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Perimetry
Perimetry, or visual field testing, evaluates the full horizontal and vertical range of what the eye can see.
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Gonioscopy
Gonioscopy is used to examine the angle in the eye where the iris meets the cornea, known as the drainage angle.
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Pachymetry
Pachymetry measures the thickness of the cornea, which is important for accurately assessing intraocular pressure.
Advanced Treatment Options Offered at
Mahaveer Eye Hospital
Advanced Treatment Options Offered at
Mahaveer Eye Hospital
At Mahaveer Eye Hospital, we are committed to providing the highest standard of care for our patients. Utilizing the latest advancements in eye care technology, we offer comprehensive and effective treatments for glaucoma. Our approach ensures that each patient receives personalized and precise care to manage their condition and preserve their vision.
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Advanced Surgical Options
Trabeculectomy
Trabeculectomy is a surgical procedure that creates a new drainage pathway for aqueous humor to leave the eye, thereby reducing intraocular pressure. During the surgery, a small flap is made in the sclera (the white part of the eye) and a reservoir, or bleb, is formed under the conjunctiva (the thin covering of the eye). This allows fluid to bypass the blocked drainage channels.
Implants
Glaucoma drainage devices, also known as shunts or tubes, are implants placed in the eye to facilitate the drainage of aqueous humor. These devices are designed to create an alternative pathway for fluid to exit the eye, helping to lower intraocular pressure. There are several types of drainage devices, including the Ahmed, Baerveldt, and Molteno implants.
MIGS
Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) encompasses a group of procedures that aim to reduce intraocular pressure with less trauma to the eye and faster recovery times compared to traditional glaucoma surgeries. MIGS procedures include the use of tiny stents, micro-incisions, and other advanced techniques to improve fluid outflow.
FAQs
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Can Glaucoma be cured?
Glaucoma cannot be cured, but with early detection and proper treatment, its progression can be slowed, and vision loss can be minimized.
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How often should I get my eyes checked for Glaucoma?
It is recommended to have a comprehensive eye exam every 1-2 years, especially for individuals over the age of 40 or those with risk factors for glaucoma.
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What lifestyle changes can help manage Glaucoma?
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, avoiding smoking, and managing other health conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure, can help manage glaucoma and protect overall eye health.