2nd floor, NC-124, Near Gayatri Mandir, Lohiya Nagar, Kankarbagh
At Navjyoti Superspeciality Eye Hospital in Kankarbagh, Bihar, we are committed to providing advanced diagnosis and treatment for Glaucoma, a leading cause of blindness worldwide. Glaucoma refers to a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, which is crucial for vision, often due to increased intraocular pressure (IOP). If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to permanent vision loss. Early detection and timely treatment are vital in managing glaucoma and preventing irreversible damage to your vision. Our hospital offers comprehensive glaucoma care using the latest technology and evidence-based treatments.
Glaucoma is a progressive eye disease that causes damage to the optic nerve, the part of the eye that transmits visual information from the retina to the brain. The most common cause of glaucoma is increased intraocular pressure (IOP), which can occur when the eye's drainage system becomes inefficient and fluid builds up. However, glaucoma can also occur with normal IOP levels in some instances. Since it often develops gradually and without noticeable symptoms in the early stages, it is often referred to as the "silent thief of sight."
There are different types of glaucoma, each with varying causes, risk factors, and treatment methods. Timely detection through regular eye exams is essential in preserving vision and preventing further damage.
There are several different types of glaucoma, each with unique characteristics and risk factors. The most common types include:
Open-angle glaucoma is the most prevalent form of glaucoma, accounting for approximately 90% of cases. In this condition, the eye's drainage canals become clogged over time, leading to gradual increases in IOP. The increased pressure damages the optic nerve, causing vision loss. The condition progresses slowly, and in the early stages, there may be no noticeable symptoms. As the disease advances, peripheral vision may start to decline.
Angle-closure glaucoma is a less common but more serious type of glaucoma. It occurs when the iris (the coloured part of the eye) becomes too close to the drainage angle, blocking the fluid from flowing out of the eye. This blockage leads to a sudden and rapid increase in IOP, which can cause severe pain, nausea, and vomiting. Angle-closure glaucoma is considered a medical emergency, and immediate treatment is necessary to prevent permanent vision loss.
In normal-tension glaucoma, damage to the optic nerve occurs despite the IOP remaining within the normal range. The exact cause of normal-tension glaucoma is unclear, but it may be related to poor blood flow to the optic nerve. This type of glaucoma often develops gradually, and vision loss may not be noticed until significant damage has occurred.
Congenital glaucoma is a rare form of glaucoma that occurs in infants and young children due to developmental issues with the eye's drainage system. This condition requires early intervention to prevent irreversible vision damage.
While the exact cause of glaucoma can vary depending on the type, several common risk factors contribute to the development of this condition:
The most significant risk factor for glaucoma is increased intraocular pressure (IOP). The pressure within the eye increases when the aqueous humour (fluid) produced inside the eye cannot drain properly, leading to a buildup of pressure. This increased pressure can damage the optic nerve, leading to vision loss.
The risk of developing glaucoma increases with age. Individuals over 60 years of age are at a higher risk, particularly for open-angle glaucoma.
A family history of glaucoma increases the likelihood of developing the condition. If a close family member has glaucoma, regular eye exams are essential to monitor for any signs of the disease.
Certain ethnic groups, particularly individuals of African, Hispanic, and Asian descent, are at a higher risk for specific types of glaucoma, including open-angle and angle-closure glaucoma.
Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease, may increase the risk of developing glaucoma. Additionally, individuals with a history of eye trauma, previous eye surgery, or steroid use may be at an increased risk.
Highly nearsighted people (myopic) or farsighted (hyperopic) are at a higher risk of developing glaucoma, particularly angle-closure glaucoma.
Glaucoma is often called the "silent thief of sight" because it usually progresses without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. In many cases, individuals with glaucoma may not experience any symptoms until significant damage has been done to the optic nerve. However, some signs may indicate the presence of glaucoma:
The first signs of glaucoma typically involve peripheral (side) vision loss. Over time, individuals may notice that they have difficulty seeing objects to the side without turning their heads.
As glaucoma progresses, individuals may experience blurred or hazy vision, particularly in low-light conditions.
In acute angle-closure glaucoma, the rapid increase in IOP can lead to severe eye pain, headaches, and nausea. This is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention.
People with glaucoma may see halos or rainbow-coloured rings around lights, especially at night. This can be a sign of increased IOP or other eye conditions.
In severe cases of angle-closure glaucoma, individuals may experience nausea and vomiting along with eye pain and blurred vision.
At Navjyoti Superspeciality Eye Hospital, we offer a wide range of treatment options for managing glaucoma. While there is no cure for glaucoma, early diagnosis and proper treatment can help control the condition and prevent further damage. Our team of skilled ophthalmologists uses state-of-the-art technology to tailor treatments to each patient's specific needs.
In the early stages of glaucoma, medications, particularly eye drops, are often prescribed to reduce intraocular pressure (IOP). These medications work by either decreasing the production of fluid in the eye or increasing the drainage of fluid to lower IOP. In some cases, oral medications may also be prescribed for additional control of IOP.
Laser treatments are used to treat specific types of glaucoma by improving the drainage of fluid from the eye or reducing fluid production. Common laser procedures include:
Laser Trabeculoplasty: This procedure is used for open-angle glaucoma to improve the drainage system and reduce IOP.
Laser Iridotomy: For angle-closure glaucoma, a small hole is made in the peripheral iris to relieve the blockage in the drainage angle.
Laser Cyclophotocoagulation: This is used to reduce fluid production in the eye for patients with refractory glaucoma.
In more advanced cases of glaucoma, surgery may be necessary to create a new drainage pathway for the fluid or to remove tissue that is producing excess fluid. Surgical procedures include:
Trabeculectomy: This surgery creates a new drainage channel to reduce IOP.
Glaucoma Drainage Implants: Small tubes or shunts are implanted to help drain fluid from the eye.
Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS): These newer, less invasive techniques aim to lower IOP with faster recovery times and fewer complications.
At Navjyoti Superspeciality Eye Hospital, we are committed to providing the highest level of care for patients with glaucoma. Here’s why you should choose us for your glaucoma treatment:
Expert Ophthalmologists: Our team of experienced glaucoma specialists is dedicated to providing the most effective treatments using the latest diagnostic tools and techniques.
Advanced Diagnostic Technology: We use state-of-the-art equipment to accurately diagnose and monitor glaucoma, ensuring that treatment plans are tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
Comprehensive Care: From routine screenings to advanced surgical interventions, we offer a comprehensive range of services to manage and treat glaucoma effectively.
Patient-Centered Approach: We believe in educating our patients and involving them in their treatment plans. Our team is always available to answer your questions and provide ongoing support.
Convenient Location: Located in Kankarbagh, Patna, our hospital serves patients from across Bihar and offers world-class glaucoma care close to home.
Don’t wait for symptoms to appear—schedule a comprehensive eye exam today at Navjyoti Superspeciality Eye Hospital in Kankarbagh, Bihar, and take control of your eye health. Our dedicated team of ophthalmologists is here to help you manage glaucoma and protect your vision for the future.
