Treatments
Glaucoma
Glaucoma: The Silent Killer of Sight
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that quietly damage the optic nerve, often with no noticeable symptoms in the early stages, leading to irreversible vision loss if left untreated. It is known as the “Silent Killer of Sight” because most people are unaware they have it until significant damage has already occurred.
Glaucoma doesn’t cause pain or sudden visual blur in its early stages. It starts by affecting peripheral (side) vision, which often goes unnoticed until the disease is advanced. Once the optic nerve is damaged, the lost vision cannot be restored. However, with early detection and proper treatment, further damage can be prevented, and your remaining vision can be preserved for life.
Why Regular Eye Check-Ups are Crucial for Glaucoma Detection
Because glaucoma is usually symptom-free in its early stages, a comprehensive eye examination is the only way to detect it early. Routine screening is especially important for:
- People above the age of 40.
- Those with a family history of glaucoma.
- Patients with high eye pressure (IOP).
- Individuals with diabetes, high blood pressure, or myopia.
- People using long-term steroid medications.
At Vision & Beyond, we perform a comprehensive glaucoma evaluation using advanced diagnostic technologies to ensure even the earliest signs are caught.
Essential Glaucoma Tests at Vision & Beyond
- Intraocular Pressure (IOP) Measurement: Checks the fluid pressure inside your eyes.
- Gonioscopy: Evaluates the drainage angle inside the eye to differentiate between open-angle and angle-closure glaucoma.
- Perimetry (Visual Field Test): Maps your peripheral vision to detect blind spots (scotomas).
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) - Optic Nerve Head (ONH) Analysis: High-resolution scans to assess the thickness of the optic nerve fibers.
- Ganglion Cell Complex (GCC) Analysis: Detects early damage to the retinal nerve fibers, even before vision loss is noticeable.
- Pachymetry: Measures corneal thickness which can influence IOP readings.
Modern Glaucoma Treatments Available
Glaucoma treatment aims to lower intraocular pressure (IOP) and prevent further optic nerve damage. Treatment options include:
Medications (Eye Drops)
- First-line treatment for most glaucoma patients.
- Reduce eye pressure by decreasing fluid production or increasing drainage.
Laser Treatments
- YAG Peripheral Iridotomy (PI): A laser procedure to create a small hole in the iris to improve fluid outflow in angle-closure glaucoma.
- Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT): Stimulates drainage tissue to improve fluid outflow in open-angle glaucoma.
- Cyclophotocoagulation (CPC): Laser treatment for advanced glaucoma cases.
Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgeries (MIGS)
- Glaucoma Drainage Stents (iStent, Hydrus Microstent): Tiny implants that enhance fluid drainage with minimal tissue disruption.
- XEN Gel Stent: A soft, flexible implant that creates a new drainage pathway.
- These are safer with faster recovery and are suitable for early to moderate cases.
Traditional Surgical Options
- Trabeculectomy: A time-tested surgical procedure that creates a new drainage channel for the aqueous fluid.
- Glaucoma Drainage Devices (Ahmed/Baerveldt Valves): Tubes and plates implanted to control severe or advanced glaucoma.
Combined Cataract and Glaucoma Surgery
- For patients who have both cataract and glaucoma, combined surgery can address both issues in a single procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
-
What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of diseases that damage the optic nerve, which connects the eye to the brain. This damage is often caused by increased pressure inside the eye (intraocular pressure) but can also occur even with normal pressure in certain types.
-
Who is at risk for developing Glaucoma?
- Age above 40 years.
- Family history of glaucoma.
- Diabetes, high blood pressure.
- Long-term use of steroids.
- People with thin corneas or high myopia.
- Trauma to the eye.
-
Are there symptoms in early-stage Glaucoma?
Most types of glaucoma, especially open-angle glaucoma, have no noticeable symptoms in early stages. Peripheral vision loss happens so gradually that it often goes unnoticed until significant damage has occurred. Acute angle-closure glaucoma, however, can present with sudden eye pain, redness, headache, halos around lights, and nausea.
-
Can Glaucoma be cured?
Glaucoma cannot be cured, and damage that has already occurred is irreversible. However, with early detection and timely treatment, the progression can be slowed or halted, preserving the remaining vision.
-
How is Glaucoma diagnosed?
A combination of tests including intraocular pressure measurement, gonioscopy, perimetry (visual fields), OCT scans, and GCC analysis are used to accurately diagnose glaucoma and assess its severity.
-
What are the latest treatments for Glaucoma?
In addition to traditional eye drops and laser procedures, Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgeries (MIGS) using stents and implants (iStent, Hydrus, XEN Gel Stent) have emerged as safer, effective options for early to moderate cases. Trabeculectomy and tube implants are reserved for advanced or aggressive glaucoma.
-
Will I go blind if I have Glaucoma?
If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to progressive, irreversible vision loss. However, with early detection, regular monitoring, and proper treatment, most patients retain good functional vision throughout their life.
-
If I have a family history of Glaucoma, when should I get my eyes checked?
If you have a family history of glaucoma, you should have your eyes checked:
- Once a year after age 40.
- Earlier and more frequently if advised by your ophthalmologist. Early screenings are vital to catch glaucoma before it causes significant damage.
-
Will I need surgery if I’m diagnosed with Glaucoma?
Not always. Many cases are well-controlled with eye drops or laser therapy. Surgery is considered if:
- Medications are not effective.
- Eye pressure remains uncontrolled.
- There’s progressive optic nerve damage.
Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgeries (MIGS) are now preferred in many cases before moving to more extensive surgeries.
-
How often should I follow up after being diagnosed?
Depending on the stage of glaucoma, follow-up may be advised every 3-6 months to monitor IOP, optic nerve health, and visual fields.
Takeaway: Early Detection Saves Sight
Glaucoma is a silent thief of vision that can be controlled if detected early. Regular comprehensive eye exams, especially for those at risk, are critical. At Vision & Beyond, we combine advanced glaucoma diagnostics and state-of-the-art treatment options to protect your vision and quality of life.