Medex Hospitals

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that damages the optic nerve, which is essential for clear vision. It is usually caused by abnormally high pressure in the eye and can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated early.

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide. Since it develops gradually, many people may not notice symptoms until significant vision damage has occurred.

Causes of Glaucoma

The primary cause of glaucoma is increased intraocular pressure (IOP). When the fluid inside the eye (aqueous humor) doesn’t drain properly, it builds up, increasing pressure and damaging the optic nerve.

Other risk factors include:

Age (more common in people over 40)
Family history of glaucoma
Diabetes
High blood pressure
Severe eye injury
Long-term use of steroid medications

Types of Glaucoma

There are different types of glaucoma, each with unique characteristics and treatment approaches:

Open-Angle Glaucoma

This is the most common form. It occurs when the eye’s drainage canals become clogged over time, leading to gradual pressure buildup.

Angle-Closure Glaucoma

This type occurs when the drainage canals are suddenly blocked, causing a rapid increase in eye pressure. It is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment.

Normal-Tension Glaucoma

Even when eye pressure is within the normal range, optic nerve damage can still occur. This type is often diagnosed in people with a genetic predisposition.

Congenital Glaucoma

Present from birth, this rare type is caused by improper development of the eye’s drainage system.

Symptoms of Glaucoma

Glaucoma is often called the "silent thief of sight" because symptoms develop slowly. However, in some cases, signs may include:

Blurred vision
Severe eye pain
Headaches
Seeing halos around lights
Loss of peripheral vision
Nausea and vomiting (in acute cases)

Diagnosis of Glaucoma

Early detection is crucial for preventing vision loss. An eye specialist may use the following tests to diagnose glaucoma:

Tonometer Test: Measures intraocular pressure.
Ophthalmoscopy: Examines the optic nerve for damage.
Perimetry Test: Checks for blind spots in vision.
Pachymetry: Measures corneal thickness.

Treatment for Glaucoma

Although glaucoma cannot be cured, treatments can help slow its progression and prevent further vision loss. Common treatment options include:

Medications

Eye drops and oral medications help lower eye pressure by either reducing fluid production or improving drainage.

Laser Therapy

Laser treatment can help improve fluid drainage in cases of open-angle or angle-closure glaucoma.

Surgery

In advanced cases, surgical procedures like trabeculectomy or drainage implants may be necessary to control eye pressure.

Medex Hospitals - Best Glaucoma Hospital in Guntur

When it comes to expert glaucoma care, Medex Hospitals is the leading choice in Guntur. Our hospital is equipped with advanced diagnostic tools and experienced eye specialists who provide the best treatment for glaucoma.

Why Choose Medex Hospitals for Glaucoma Treatment?

Experienced Ophthalmologists: Our eye specialists have years of expertise in diagnosing and managing glaucoma.
Comprehensive Eye Care: From early screening to advanced surgical procedures, we offer complete eye care solutions.
Personalized Treatment Plans: Every patient receives a customized treatment approach based on their condition.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: We use modern equipment for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

At Medex Hospitals, we prioritize patient care and aim to preserve vision with timely interventions. If you or your loved ones are at risk of glaucoma, early detection is key to maintaining eye health.

Glaucoma