Glaucoma

Glaucoma is an eye condition damaging the optic nerve, which is caused by abnormally high pressure in your eyes.

Because vision loss due to glaucoma can't be recovered, it's important to have regular eye exams that include measurements of eye pressure so a diagnosis can be made in its early stages and treated appropriately.

Glaucoma
  • Severe headache
  • Eye pain and redness
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Blurred vision
  • Halos around lights

When to see a doctor: Promptly go to an eye doctor's (ophthalmologist) if above mentioned symptoms are noticed.

  • Glaucoma is the result of damage to the optic nerve caused by abnormally high pressure.
  • Elevated eye pressure is due to a buildup of a fluid (aqueous humor) that flows throughout the inside of your eye. This internal fluid normally drains out, but if there is improper drainage of this fluid, then eye pressure increases.
  • Having high internal eye pressure (intraocular pressure)
  • Being over age 60
  • Being black, Asian, or Hispanic
  • Having a family history of glaucoma
  • Diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and sickle cell anemia
  • Taking corticosteroid medications, especially eye drops, for a long time

These self-care steps can help you detect glaucoma in its early stages, which is important in preventing vision loss or slowing its progress.

  • Regular eye pressure checkup
  • Know your family's eye health history.

How is it diagnosed?

  • Measuring intraocular pressure (tonometry)
  • Testing for optic nerve damage with a dilated eye examination and imaging tests
  • Checking for areas of vision loss (visual field test)
  • Measuring corneal thickness (pachymetry)
Glaucoma

 

How is it treated?

The damage caused by glaucoma can't be reversed. But treatment and regular checkups can help slow or prevent vision loss, especially if the disease is diagnosed in its early stages.

Glaucoma is treated by lowering your eye pressure (intraocular pressure). Depending on your situation, options include prescription of anti-glaucoma eye drops, oral medications, laser treatment, surgery, or a combination of any of these.

Consult with experienced Doctors

JNU is home to some of the most eminent doctors in the world, most of whom are pioneers in their respective arenas and are renowned for developing innovative and revolutionary procedures
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