Glaucoma is a disorder that affects the eyes due to direct damage to the optic nerve. The optic nerve, which connects the eyes to the brain, transmits visual information to the brain. This nerve can become damaged when intraocular pressure in the eyes exceeds the normal range, resulting in a condition known as high eye pressure or ocular hypertension.
Glaucoma can affect both eyes, though the extent of damage may vary between them. This disorder is often inherited and becomes apparent due to increased eye pressure. If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to serious issues over time, such as permanent vision loss. Therefore, timely detection and treatment are crucial to prevent severe vision impairment or permanent blindness.
Types of Glaucoma
There are two main types of glaucoma. The first type, open-angle glaucoma (OAG), occurs due to the buildup of watery fluid in the eyes, which can enter the drainage angle and exit the eye. The second type, narrow-angle glaucoma (NAG), happens when the watery fluid cannot access the drainage path, leading to increased eye pressure.
Symptoms of Glaucoma
Although most people do not notice early signs of glaucoma, one key indicator can help detect this eye condition: the peripheral loss of side or angled vision. Individuals experiencing this symptom should undergo a comprehensive eye checkup to determine if they have glaucoma.
Other symptoms that can provide early signs of glaucoma are as follows:
- Difficulty to see
- Eye pain
- Partial or peripheral loss of vision
- Redness in the eyes
- Vague view, especially in infants
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Narrowed tunnel vision
How to diagnose Glaucoma?
If a patient reports eye redness or persistent eye pain, the doctor may recommend a complete eye examination and a tonometry test to check for glaucoma.
How to treat Glaucoma?
Treating glaucoma often begins with the use of prescribed eye drops by eye specialists. However, depending on the severity of the condition, surgery may be recommended. There are two main types of surgery: laser surgery and microsurgery.
- Laser surgery: Laser surgery for glaucoma involves opening fluid blockages to alleviate symptoms, particularly in cases of open-angle glaucoma. This procedure includes Trabeculoplasty, where the surgeon opens the drainage pathway, and Iridotomy, which facilitates fluid flow. Additionally, Cyclophotocoagulation targets the middle layer of the eye to reduce fluid pressure.
- Microsurgery: Microsurgery is a delicate surgical procedure wherein multiple new channels are created to enhance fluid drainage in the eyes. This technique aims to alleviate pressure on the optic nerve, thereby preserving vision and preventing further damage.
Glaucoma Treatment cost in India are as follow
Treatment | Cost in India | Stay in Hospital |
Glaucoma Treatment | 450-550 | 30-50 Days |
Eyelid Surgery | 1100-1300 | 7-8 Days |
Lasik Eye Surgery | 450-550 | 1 Day |
Laser Eye Surgery | 600-700 | 1-2 Days |