Everything you wanted to know about glaucoma

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of irreversible of blindness in the world. It is a symptom complex associated with a triad:

• §       Increase in intra-ocular pressure
• §       Restriction in the field of vision resulting in tunnel vision
• §       Cupping of the optic disk or irreversible damage to the optic nerve responsible for Reason

Myths associated with glaucoma

People with good vision do not suffer from glaucoma, glaucoma affects only elderly people, it affects one eye only, it is lifestyle or diet related condition – These are all myths and completely untrue. Glaucoma can and does affect young people. Few unfortunate newborns may have glaucoma from birth. Usually it affects both eyes and is not a lifestyle disorder. Another myth is that glaucoma always leads to blindness. There is no reason under the sun to lose vision in today,s world with excellent medical laser and surgical line of treatment,” says Dr. Himanshu Mehta.

Signs and symptoms

In the early phase, there may not be any signs or symptoms. Glaucoma can damage your vision so gradually you may not notice nay loss of vision until the disease is at an advanced stage. Hence, it is called as the ‘silent thief of sight’. In select cases of closed angle glaucoma, one may get headache, vomiting or severe eye pain with redness. The American academy of ophthalmology recommends a comprehensive eye exam for all adult starting at age of 40. Risk factors include family history (Parents, Grand Parents, Maternal or Paternal aunt/Uncle). After you turn 40 you need to go for an eye exam every three to five years even you don’t have any risk factor. If you are older than 60 you should be screened every one to two years,” he adds.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Early diagnosis and treatment can minimize or prevent optic nerve damage and limit glaucoma-related vision loss and blindness. Treatment in a majority of cases is in the form of eye drops that are to be used regularly. There are also multiple drugs available to control eye pressure. Eventually, surgery is recommended if medicines do not work.

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