Overview

Glaucoma is an eye condition where damage to the optic nerve, often caused by increased intraocular pressure, leads to progressive vision loss. It’s a leading cause of blindness globally, commonly affecting those over 60. Referred to as the “silent thief of sight,” glaucoma typically has no early symptoms, making regular eye check-ups essential for early detection. There are several types, including open-angle and angle-closure glaucoma, each with different effects on the eye. While vision loss from glaucoma is irreversible, early diagnosis and treatments like medication, laser therapy, or surgery can help control eye pressure and prevent further damage.

Routinely performed procedures

  1. Prescription Eye Drops: Common first-line therapy to lower intraocular pressure.
  2. Oral Medications: Used when eye drops are insufficient, helping reduce fluid production.
  3. Laser Trabeculoplasty: Laser treatment to improve fluid drainage in open-angle glaucoma.
  4. Laser Iridotomy: Creates a small hole in the iris to relieve pressure in angle-closure glaucoma.
  5. Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS): Involves small implants to enhance fluid outflow.
  6. Trabeculectomy: Surgical creation of a drainage flap to lower eye pressure.
  7. Glaucoma Drainage Devices: Implants or shunts help facilitate fluid drainage.
  8. Cyclophotocoagulation: Laser treatment to reduce fluid production by targeting the ciliary body.

Frequently Asked Questions!

Increased intraocular pressure damages the optic nerve over time.

No, but early detection helps manage and prevent damage.

Eye drops lower intraocular pressure and prevent vision loss.

 Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery for pressure reduction.

Yes, laser surgery improves fluid drainage, lowering eye pressure.