The Silent Thief of Sight: Understanding the Basics of Glaucoma

Glaucoma, often referred to as the "silent thief of sight," is a serious eye condition that affects millions of people around the world. It can be caused by various reasons and glaucoma often has no noticeable symptoms, and vision remains relatively normal. If you experience sudden eye pain, vision changes, or other symptoms, seek immediate help from the best glaucoma specialist in Coimbatore for early detection & management the vision loss.

In this article, we will delve into the basics of glaucoma, its causes, symptoms, and available treatment options.

 

Glaucoma Treatment in Coimbatore

What is Glaucoma?

 

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases characterized by damage to the optic nerve, which connects the eye to the brain. This damage is typically caused by increased pressure inside the eye, known as intraocular pressure (IOP). When left untreated, glaucoma can lead to permanent vision loss and even blindness. Check for glaucoma surgery costs in Coimbatore for multiple treatment options based on your requirements.

 

Types of Glaucoma

 

1. Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma

This is the most common type of glaucoma, accounting for about 90% of cases. It usually develops gradually and without noticeable symptoms, until significant vision loss occurs.

2. Angle-Closure Glaucoma

This type of glaucoma occurs when the drainage angle of the eye becomes blocked, leading to a sudden increase in intraocular pressure. Angle-closure glaucoma requires immediate medical attention as it can cause rapid vision loss.

3. Normal-Tension Glaucoma

In normal-tension glaucoma, the optic nerve becomes damaged even though the intraocular pressure remains within the normal range. 

4. Congenital Glaucoma

Congenital glaucoma is present at birth or develops shortly afterward. It is caused by improper development of the eye's drainage system during fetal development.

 

Causes and Risk Factors

 

The exact cause of glaucoma is not always clear, but certain factors can increase the risk of developing the condition. These include:

• Age (over 60)
• Family history of glaucoma
• Ethnicity (African, Hispanic, and Asian descent)
• High eye pressure
• Thin corneas
• Nearsightedness
• Other diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure

 

Symptoms of Glaucoma

 

In its early stages, glaucoma may not show any noticeable symptoms. As the condition gets severe, individuals may experience:

• Gradual loss of peripheral vision (tunnel vision)
• Blurred vision
• Halos around lights
• Eye redness
• Severe eye pain
• Nausea and vomiting (in cases of acute angle-closure glaucoma)

 

Treatment Options

 

While there is currently no cure for glaucoma, glaucoma treatment in Coimbatore aims to manage the condition and prevent further vision loss. Common treatment options include:

• Eye drops Medications to reduce intraocular pressure.
• Oral medications: Help decrease eye pressure.
• Laser therapy: Uses focused beams of light to improve fluid drainage in the eye.
• Surgery: In severe cases, glaucoma surgery may be necessary to create a new drainage channel or reduce fluid production.

 

Conclusion

 

Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that requires early detection and proper management to prevent vision loss. Regular eye exams and awareness of risk factors are crucial in maintaining healthy vision. If you experience any symptoms or have concerns about glaucoma, consult with a glaucoma doctor in Coimbatore to ensure timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Remember, early intervention can make a significant difference in preserving your sight.