Our eyes are filled with a certain fluid that maintains the pressure and shape of the eye. An abnormality in the drainage system can cause fluid to build up, leading to excessive eye pressure. This increase in eye pressure causes compression of the optic nerve which leads to optic nerve damage and, consequently, the development of glaucoma. Glaucoma, a group of eye conditions, is the second leading reason for vision loss and blindness across the globe.
According to the Glaucoma Research Foundation, the prevalence of glaucoma is expected to increase as it is estimated that approximately 111.8 million people worldwide will suffer from glaucoma by 2040.
As per World Health Organisation, glaucoma is a major public health concern in India. Around 12 million people suffer from glaucoma in the country, out of which 1.5 million are blind.
Diagnosing glaucoma
“Glaucoma is also known as ‘the silent thief of sight’ as the disease largely does not show symptoms in its early stages. Moreover, most individuals do not undergo routine eye exams to facilitate its detection. In India, 90% of glaucoma patients are unaware of their condition at the time of the diagnosis,” said Dr Harsh Kumar,Director,Glaucoma Services, Centre for Sight.
“As it progresses, glaucoma results in loss of peripheral vision followed by tunnel vision and eventually complete blindness. Some of the symptoms include severe headache, eye pain and redness, blurred vision, and halos or coloured rings around lights,” he added.
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There are two major types of glaucoma, one is open-angle glaucoma (OAG), where the eye fails to drain fluid as it should and closed-angle glaucoma in which the iris swells resulting in narrowing or blocking the drainage angle formed by the cornea and iris.
Though anyone can develop glaucoma, the risk increases with certain factors. People who are above the age of 60, have a family history of glaucoma or have diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and have a history of long-term use of corticosteroids are at risk of developing glaucoma. You must also get a comprehensive eye checkup if you have a history of eye injury or surgery.
Treatment Options
According to Dr Kumar, damage caused by glaucoma can't be reversed. But, if diagnosed at an initial stage, treatment and regular checkups can help slow down and prevent further vision loss. To check for glaucoma, your eye doctor may perform several tests which include measuring intraocular pressure (tonometry), testing for optic nerve damage, conducting a visual field test, measuring the corneal thickness, and reviewing the drainage angle (gonioscopy).
Early-stage glaucoma can be treated with eye drops and oral medications. These drugs help in decreasing eye pressure and reducing fluid in the eyes. If this treatment proves insufficient, the doctor may recommend laser therapy or surgery.
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In some cases, gaze training can help older patients to carry out everyday activities such as walking, driving, or other real-world tasks. This strategy allows individuals to maximise their remaining vision and maintain their independence in daily activities.
Though it cannot be cured, glaucoma can be managed with appropriate treatment if detected in time. Therefore, it becomes necessary for people who are at risk of developing the disease to undergo periodic eye examinations to detect the onset of disease. With adequate treatment, you can prevent glaucoma from worsening and causing irreversible vision loss or blindness. Make an appointment with your ophthalmologist and get an eye examination today.