How is Glaucoma Diagnosed ?

An Eye Doctor will review your medical history and do a comprehensive eye exam. Several tests may be done, including :

• Measuring intraocular pressure, also called tonometry

• Testing for optic nerve damage with a dilated eye exam and imaging tests.

• Checking for areas of vision loss, also known as a visual field test.

• Measuring corneal thickness with an exam called pachymetry.

• Inspecting the drainage angle, also known as gonioscopy

Treatment :

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 found in its early stages.

Glaucoma treatment focuses on lowering intraocular pressure (IOP) to prevent further vision loss, as lost vision can't be restored, using options like prescription eye drops (first-line), oral medications, laser therapy (like trabeculoplasty to improve drainage), and surgeries (e.g., trabeculectomy, drainage implants, MIGS) often combined for chronic management. The choice depends on the type and severity of glaucoma, with consistency in treatment being crucial.

Treatment Options

• Medications :

1. Eye Drops: Most common initial treatment, reducing fluid production or increasing drainage. Examples include beta-blockers, prostaglandin analogues, alpha-agonists, and carbonic anhydrase inhibitors.

2. Oral Medications : May be used alongside drops, such as carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (like acetazolamide).

• Laser Therapy:

1. Laser Trabeculoplasty : Laser trabeculoplasty is an option if eye drops can't be tolerated. It also may be used if medicine hasn't slowed the progression of the disease. This technique uses a small laser to improve the drainage of the tissue located at the angle where the iris and cornea meet. It may take a few weeks before the full effect of this procedure becomes apparent.

• Surgery :

1.Trabeculectomy: Creates a new drainage channel for fluid to escape, forming a small bleb under the eyelid.

2.Glaucoma Drainage Devices (Tube Shunts) : Tiny tubes implanted to drain fluid to a collection reservoir.

3.Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) : Uses micro-stents or implants to enhance drainage with less risk and faster recovery. A MIGS procedure is often combined with cataract surgery.

Key Considerations

• No Cure, but Manageable : Treatments manage the condition, preventing further damage, but cannot reverse existing vision loss.

• Consistency is Key : Daily, lifelong use of medications may be necessary.

• Regular Checkups : Essential to monitor pressure and treatment effectiveness.