Glaucoma is one of the harshest eye diseases, affecting millions of people worldwide. Primarily caused by high intraocular pressure, harm to the optic nerves results in permanent blindness if not treated to prevent it from occurring. Glaucoma is called the "silent thief of sight," for it comes on slowly without quickly manifesting itself until permanent damage has occurred. Early detection becomes very important for the prevention of blindness and preservation of vision.

Types of Glaucoma

There are many types of Glaucoma, and every kind has specific features. Awareness of these helps in the correct diagnosis and treatment planning.

1. Open-Angle Glaucoma

This is the most prevalent one, usually occurring over time. It is caused by impaired fluid drainage from the eye's trabecular meshwork.

2. Angle-Closure Glaucoma

Also known as closed-angle glaucoma, it occurs when the iris blocks the drainage angles. There is an acute or sudden pathological process with rapid increase in pressure, or a chronic process with insidious increase in pressure.

3. Normal-Tension Glaucoma

Damage occurs to the optic nerve in glaucoma, even when ocular pressure is normal. It takes place due to poor circulation or a damaged optic nerve.

4. Congenital Glaucoma

Congenital or born with it, the lesser variety is endured by infants and more often the product of faulty drainage tubes in the eye.

5. Secondary Glaucoma

Caused by other ailments such as diabetes, traumatic damage to the eye, or illicit drug use, secondary glaucoma is brought about by countless causes other than primary glaucoma.

Causes of Glaucoma

Glaucoma Causes differ based on the type, but all have one common cause: increased intraocular pressure (IOP), which can lead to optic nerve damage. Pressure is created when fluid in the eye (aqueous humor) cannot drain.
Causes of Glaucoma are:

  • Defected or blocked drainage tubes
  • Eye trauma or injury
  • Blind infections in the eye
  • Inflammation
  • Certain drugs such as corticosteroids
  • Poor optic nerve blood supply
Genetics also has its role. Patients of glaucoma such as this who do have a relative or family member suffering in the same way are most likely to be victims of the disease.

Glaucoma Symptoms

Glaucoma Symptoms vary according to the spread and form of the disease. Small-case patients won't lose their vision at all. The symptoms become worse as the area where the disease spreads gets larger.
Some of the non-specific symptoms are:

  • Peripheral (side) vision loss in a gradual manner
  • Tunnel vision in end-stage disease
  • Blurry vision
  • Halos around light
  • Discomfort or pain in the eye
  • Redness of the eye
  • Nausea or vomiting (in acute cases)
Acute angle-closure glaucoma may have an abrupt onset of symptoms and is an eye emergency that needs immediate evaluation.

Glaucoma Diagnosis

A regular eye check-up usually diagnoses Glaucoma. Early detection is required to treat this condition and prevent permanent vision loss.
The most crucial diagnostic equipment is:

  • Tonometry (intraocular pressure measurement)
  • Ophthalmoscopy (ophthalmic nerve test)
  • Perimetry (test of visual field)
  • Gonioscopy (drainage angle test)
  • Pachymetry (test of thickness of cornea)
If treated at early stages, it can be postponed or stopped.


Treatment Procedures of Glaucoma

Glaucoma Treatment Options are performed to decrease eye pressure and protect the optic nerve. The treatment is established depending on the character of the disease and the stage.

1. Glaucoma Eye Drops

They are usually the initial line. Glaucoma drops taper production or increase drainage of the eyes.

2. Systemic Medicines

Used sparingly in case drops are insufficient, the medicines also lower intraocular pressure.

3. Glaucoma Laser Procedures

Glaucoma Laser Surgery enhances fluid drainage and lowers pressure. Most typical procedures are:

  • Laser trabeculoplasty (for open-angle)
  • Iridotomy (for angle-closure)
  • Cyclophotocoagulation (to decrease fluid production)

4. Standard Procedure

Procedures such as trabeculectomy or drainage implantation are used for severe or intractable disease.

Glaucoma Drugs

Eye drops for Glaucoma are a broad category of medications used to reduce intraocular pressure. The medication comes in the form of eye drops, tablets, and injections. It is taken as directed on a repetitive basis, commonly for the rest of one's life.
Impressive Classes of Glaucoma Medications:

  • Prostaglandin analogs (enhance outflow)
  • Beta-blockers (reduce the production of fluid)
  • Alpha agonists (reduce production and enhance outflow)
  • Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors
  • Rho kinase inhibitors
Your eye doctor will decide the most suitable combination for your particular type of glaucoma.

Prevention Tips for Glaucoma

Although some of the risk factors cannot be avoided, following Glaucoma Prevention Tips will lower your chances of developing or encountering the disease at an early age.

  • Have regular complete eye exams if you are over the age of 40 or have a family history
  • Treat current medical conditions such as diabetes and hypertension
  • Protect your eyes from damage
  • Exercise daily to give a routine blood supply
  • Use eye drops as directed
  • Eat a balanced diet of green leafy foods and omega-3s

Open-Angle vs Closed-Angle Glaucoma - What to Know?

Open-Angle vs Closed-Angle Glaucoma divisions depending on their mechanism and timing:

  • Open-angle does not show itself with symptoms initially and worsens over time. It's a consequence of the gradual occlusion of drainage tubes.
  • Closed-angle is sudden and is accompanied by evident signs such as painful eyes and nausea. It's riskier and requires immediate action.

Glaucoma and Its Effects on Physical Health


Glaucoma and Blindness: What to Expect?

If left untreated, glaucoma and blindness are a couple. Glaucoma and Vision Loss typically start on the periphery and work their way inward toward central vision.
Signs and Symptoms of Vision Loss:

  • Difficulty seeing in low light
  • Empty areas in the side vision
  • Difficulty seeing objects close up or far away
  • Requirement for more light to read
  • Glare sensitivity
Nevertheless, early detection and treatment can preserve existing vision while reversing the progression of blindness due to glaucoma.
Glaucoma and blindness, if untreated, are a bleak scenario. Actually, glaucoma is the second most prevalent cause of blindness in the world. However loss of vision is usually prevented or reduced by getting proper treatment and care at the right time.

Glaucoma Effects in Older Adults

Glaucoma in Elderly Patients is particularly challenging since the likelihood of experiencing glaucoma increases with age. The elderly must get their eyes screened occasionally for the disease to be diagnosed early. The elderly are likely to have subnormal vision, and losing further vision can result in permanent loss of independence and quality of life.

Conclusion

Glaucoma is an eye disease that can still cause irreversible blindness if left untreated. Although symptomatic only intermittently and in its progressive course, early detection on the road to regular eye exams can preserve vision and optimize treatment outcomes. From eye drops and pills to surgery and lifestyle modification, a great many treatments avert this from occurring. If you are at risk or worried about your eyes, have them checked by an eye care professional immediately. Knowledge is the best protection against glaucoma.

 Please book an appointment with the best Eye Specialist in Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and all major cities of Pakistan through InstaCare, or call our helpline at 03171777509 to find a verified doctor for your disease.