Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that can cause damage to the optic nerve, leading to irreversible vision loss if not diagnosed and treated in time. As one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide, glaucoma is a condition that requires expert care and early intervention to prevent severe outcomes. At Desai Eye Institute and Research Centre, located in Vadodara, Gujarat, we provide comprehensive, advanced eye care using cutting-edge technology and personalized treatment plans to preserve and enhance vision for our patients.
What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma occurs when there is an increase in intraocular pressure (IOP) within the eye, leading to damage of the optic nerve, which transmits visual information from the eye to the brain. There are different types of glaucoma, with open-angle glaucoma and angle-closure glaucoma being the most common. If left untreated, glaucoma can result in gradual, permanent vision loss and even blindness.
Symptoms of Glaucoma
Glaucoma is often referred to as the “silent thief of sight” because it can develop gradually with little or no symptoms, especially in the early stages. People may not notice any vision problems until the disease has already caused significant damage. However, as glaucoma progresses, individuals may experience the following symptoms:
- Blurry or Tunnel Vision: A narrowing of the peripheral (side) vision, leading to a tunnel-like vision.
- Severe Eye Pain: In cases of acute angle-closure glaucoma, there may be sudden, intense eye pain.
- Headaches: Frequent headaches, especially with acute angle-closure glaucoma.
- Nausea and Vomiting: These symptoms may occur along with severe eye pain in acute glaucoma.
- Halos Around Lights: The appearance of colored rings or halos around lights, particularly at night.
- Sudden Vision Loss: In advanced stages, individuals may experience loss of vision in the affected eye.
It’s important to have regular eye exams, as early-stage glaucoma typically shows no symptoms, and only a comprehensive eye exam can detect it
Causes of Glaucoma
The primary cause of glaucoma is increased intraocular pressure due to a buildup of fluid in the eye, which is unable to drain properly. This pressure damages the optic nerve over time. Several factors contribute to the development of glaucoma:
- Increased Eye Pressure: When the drainage channels in the eye become blocked or impaired, the aqueous humor (fluid in the eye) builds up, causing increased pressure within the eye.
- Genetic Factors: A family history of glaucoma increases the risk of developing the condition.
- Age: Individuals over the age of 60 are at a higher risk, though glaucoma can affect people of any age.
- Ethnicity: People of African, Asian, or Hispanic descent are more likely to develop glaucoma.
- Other Health Conditions: Conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease can increase the risk of developing glaucoma.
- Eye Injury: Previous eye injuries or surgeries can increase the risk of glaucoma.
- Long-Term Use of Steroid Medications: Prolonged use of steroid medications can raise the risk of developing glaucoma.
Diagnosis of Glaucoma
At Desai Eye Institute and Research Centre, we use state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment and techniques to detect glaucoma early and monitor its progression. Our diagnostic tools include:
- Comprehensive Eye Exam: A thorough eye exam by our ophthalmologists, including measuring intraocular pressure (IOP), examining the optic nerve, and testing the peripheral vision.
- Tonometry: We use Humphrey Visual Field Analyzer (Zeiss) and Nidek Topography (Japan) to measure intraocular pressure. Elevated IOP is a key indicator of glaucoma.
- OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography): Using Optovue OCT (USA), we capture detailed images of the optic nerve and retina, which helps detect early signs of glaucoma-related damage.
- Visual Field Testing: This test assesses the extent of peripheral vision loss and is essential for diagnosing glaucoma.
- Gonioscopy: This test is used to examine the angle of the eye’s drainage system, particularly to detect angle-closure glaucoma.
- Fundus Photography: Using our Zeiss Visucam Lite Fundus Camera (Germany), we capture detailed images of the retina and optic nerve to monitor any changes over time.
Treatment for Glaucoma
Although glaucoma cannot be cured, it can be effectively managed with early detection and appropriate treatment. At Desai Eye Institute and Research Centre, we offer a variety of treatment options to help control intraocular pressure and prevent further damage to the optic nerve:
- Medications (Eye Drops): The first line of treatment for glaucoma is typically eye drops that reduce intraocular pressure. These medications may work by either reducing the amount of fluid produced in the eye or improving its drainage. Our ophthalmologists will prescribe the most effective medication based on your condition.
- Oral Medications: In some cases, oral medications may be prescribed in addition to eye drops to help lower intraocular pressure.
- Laser Treatment:
- Laser Trabeculoplasty: This treatment is used for open-angle glaucoma and involves using a laser to improve the drainage of fluid from the eye, which lowers intraocular pressure.
- Laser Iridotomy: For angle-closure glaucoma, this laser procedure creates a small hole in the peripheral iris to allow fluid to drain more effectively.
- Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT): SLT uses a laser to treat the eye’s drainage system to lower eye pressure. It is a safe and effective option for open-angle glaucoma.
- Surgical Treatment:
- Trabeculectomy: A surgical procedure in which a small section of the eye’s drainage system is removed to create a new drainage channel.
- Tube Shunt Surgery: A drainage tube is implanted to help fluid drain more easily from the eye, thus lowering intraocular pressure.
Monitoring and Follow-up: Continuous monitoring is essential for people with glaucoma to ensure that their intraocular pressure is controlled. Our team of specialists at Desai Eye Institute will conduct regular eye exams and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
- Medications (Eye Drops): The first line of treatment for glaucoma is typically eye drops that reduce intraocular pressure. These medications may work by either reducing the amount of fluid produced in the eye or improving its drainage. Our ophthalmologists will prescribe the most effective medication based on your condition.
Why Choose Desai Eye Institute and Research Centre for Glaucoma Care?
Desai Eye Institute and Research Centre is committed to providing the highest quality of care for glaucoma patients. Here are the reasons why our patients trust us:
- Advanced Technology: We utilize cutting-edge diagnostic tools like Optovue OCT (USA) and Zeiss Visucam Lite Fundus Camera to ensure accurate diagnosis and effective monitoring of glaucoma.
- Expert Ophthalmologists: Our team of glaucoma specialists has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating all types of glaucoma, ensuring the best outcomes for our patients.
- Comprehensive Treatment: From medications to advanced laser procedures and surgery, we offer a full spectrum of treatment options tailored to your specific condition.
- Personalized Care: We understand that every patient is unique. Our team takes the time to understand your needs and create a treatment plan that works best for you.
- 24/7 Service Availability: We provide round-the-clock emergency services for urgent glaucoma care.
Contact Us
If you are concerned about your eye health or suspect you may have glaucoma, don’t wait—schedule an appointment with us today. Early detection and treatment are key to managing glaucoma and preventing vision loss.
Desai Eye Institute and Research Centre
Manharpark Soc., Subhanpura High Tension Line Road,
Near Vimalnath Cross Roads, Santosh Nagar, Subhanpura,
Vadodara, Gujarat 390023
- Phone: 0265 229 2266
- Working Hours:
Monday – Friday: 08:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 09:30 AM – 05:00 PM
Sunday: 09:00 AM – 03:30 PM
We also offer cashless facilities with major insurance providers, including New India Insurance, ICICI Lombard, HDFC Ergo, Reliance General Insurance, and more.
Desai Eye Institute is dedicated to protecting your vision and ensuring you live a life free from the worry of glaucoma. Schedule your eye exam today!