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Glaucoma

H. V. Desai Eye Hospital, specialises in dealing with the treatment of all types of glaucoma, including primary, secondary, paediatric and end-stage glaucoma. At present, glaucoma is the second most common cause of blindness. Unlike cataract, it causes irreversible vision loss. Hence, our main purpose is to preserve the existing, unaffected vision and avoid the progression of blindness. We are equipped with all the latest modalities for the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma that is available in most modern healthcare centres.

What is Glaucoma?+

Normally, fluid in the eye, flows from behind pupil to a place between the iris and cornea, which is known as the angle of the eyes. It is a sieve-like structure that is known as the trabecular meshwork. In some patients, this fluid does not flow out properly, resulting in high pressure within the eye.

Glaucoma, is a disease of the eye, in which pressure within the eye, i.e. intraocular pressure, increases. If left untreated, it is likely to result in permanent damage to the optic nerve that transmits images to the brain, which results in complete and irreversible blindness.

If diagnosed and treated at an early stage, vision can be maintained steadfast and further loss of vision, can be prevented.

What are the different types of Glaucoma? +

The two major types of glaucoma are:

Open-Angle Glaucoma (OAG):

This is the most common type of glaucoma, usually occurs in old age, affecting both the eyes of a patient.
This condition does not have any symptoms, to indicate the existence of the disease, until later stages, hence regular check-up is mandatory.
This condition may be hereditary, hence, relatives of patients, diagnosed with OAG are advised to undergo regular eye check-up.

Closed-Angle Glaucoma (acute angle-closure glaucoma):

This condition is usually detected when a patient experiences pain and rapid vision loss.
Fortunately, permanent damage is uncommon due to this condition as patients normally seek immediate medical help for these symptoms, which leads to prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Signs and symptoms of Glaucoma+

Open-Angle Glaucoma (OAG):

Condition presents with no symptoms and hence called the ‘silent killer’ of vision, hence early diagnosis and treatment is essential.

Closed-Angle Glaucoma (acute angle-closure glaucoma):

Eye pain, usually severe accompanied by nausea and sometimes vomiting
Blurred vision, sudden and unexpected, especially in dim light
Lights appear to have extra halo-like glows around them
Red eyes

Other types of glaucoma: traumatic glaucoma, congenital glaucoma, drug-induced glaucoma, pseudoexfoliative glaucoma, etc.

Who are at a high risk of suffering from Glaucoma? +

Most often, glaucoma occurs in adults aged over 40 years, however, it can also occur in young adults, children, and infants. People who are likely to suffer from glaucoma are listed below:

Age over 40 years.
Family history of glaucoma.
People suffering from diabetes.
Some eye injuries can cause glaucoma.
People with myopia (near-sightedness) or high plus number.
Patients on long-term corticosteroids in the form of drops or ointments for skin conditions.

Facilities available at H. V. Desai Eye Hospital+