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Glaucoma
Glaucoma is one of the major causes of blindness in India. In glaucoma the pressure inside the eye (intraocular pressure) becomes too much for the eye to tolerate. This damages the optic nerve resulting in loss of vision.
Glaucoma usually affects both the eyes. It occurs in adults above 40 years of age, but can also occur in newborn babies. Glaucoma is a chronic disease; it cannot be cured but medication can arrest the progress of the disease.
A glaucoma patient can see only the centre of the object not the full image. As the disease progresses, even this vision is lost. Secondary glaucoma may occur if there is a history of eye injury, pain and loss of vision. Persons with diabetes and patients who have had intraocular surgery are prone to glaucoma.
What are the symptoms associated with Glaucoma in adults?
- Loss of peripheral vision: this is often not noticed until considerable damage has occurred.
- Halos or rainbow-colored rings perceived around lights
- Vision may be blurred or foggy.
- Pain and redness of the eye
- Difficulty walking without assistance
What are the symptoms associated with Glaucoma in infants and children?
Redness and watering, enlargement of the eyes, corneal clouding and photophobia (aversion to light)
What treatment options are available for Glaucoma?
Blindness due to glaucoma can be prevented by early detection, proper management and regular follow-up.
Congenital glaucoma requires immediate treatment. It is essential that patients use the medication on a daily basis, as advised. Surgery is suggested when it is not possible to manage glaucoma with medication. Medical management or surgery can halt further visual loss, it cannot restore the vision already lost.
Outcome
Glaucoma can lead to blindness. An early diagnosis is your best chance. Vision once lost due to glaucoma cannot be restored. Get your eyes tested regularly, especially if there is a family history of glaucoma.
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