Glaucoma
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :
1. Can glaucoma be cured?
Glaucoma cannot be cured, but with early diagnosis and treatment, its progression can be slowed down, preserving vision for many years.
2. How often should I get my eyes checked for glaucoma?
It’s recommended to have an eye check-up every 1-2 years after the age of 40, or more frequently if you have risk factors like family history or diabetes.
3. Is glaucoma hereditary?
Yes, glaucoma often runs in families. If you have a family history of the disease, it’s important to get regular eye exams.
About Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, which is crucial for good vision. This damage is often caused by abnormally high pressure in your eye. If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to permanent blindness. Dr. Suraj Munjal, a renowned ophthalmologist, specializes in early diagnosis and advanced treatments for glaucoma, ensuring the best care for his patients.
What Causes Glaucoma?
Several factors can lead to glaucoma, with the most common being increased intraocular pressure (IOP). Other causes include:
- Age: People over 60 are at higher risk.
- Family history: Glaucoma tends to run in families.
- Medical conditions: Diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease can contribute to the development of glaucoma.
- Eye injuries or surgeries: Previous eye trauma or surgeries may increase the risk.
Identifying and managing these causes early can help reduce the chances of vision loss.
Types of Glaucoma
There are several types of glaucoma, and identifying the correct type is crucial for proper treatment. Common types include:
- Open-Angle Glaucoma: The most common type, where fluid in the eye drains too slowly, leading to pressure build-up.
- Angle-Closure Glaucoma: Less common but more severe, this type happens when the iris blocks fluid drainage.
- Normal-Tension Glaucoma: Occurs even when eye pressure is normal but still causes optic nerve damage.
- Congenital Glaucoma: Present from birth due to improper eye development.
Understanding the type of glaucoma is essential for determining the best treatment plan.
Symptoms of Glaucoma
Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” because it typically shows no symptoms until significant vision loss has occurred. However, some early warning signs may include:
- Gradual loss of peripheral vision
- Blurred vision
- Eye pain or redness (especially in angle-closure glaucoma)
- Seeing halos around lights
- Sudden loss of vision (in acute cases)
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s critical to consult an ophthalmologist like Dr. Suraj Munjal for immediate evaluation.
How is Glaucoma Diagnosed?
Early diagnosis of glaucoma can prevent vision loss. During a glaucoma evaluation, Dr. Suraj Munjal will conduct:
- Tonometry: Measures eye pressure.
- Ophthalmoscopy: Examines the optic nerve for damage.
- Perimetry: Tests the field of vision to detect blind spots.
- Gonioscopy: Inspects the angle in the eye where fluid drains.
- Pachymetry: Measures corneal thickness, which can influence eye pressure readings.
A combination of these tests will determine the presence and severity of glaucoma.
Treatment Options for Glaucoma
The goal of glaucoma treatment is to reduce eye pressure and prevent further damage to the optic nerve. Treatment options include:
- Medications: Eye drops or oral medications to lower eye pressure.
- Laser Therapy: Laser trabeculoplasty is used to improve fluid drainage.
- Surgery: In cases where medications or laser therapy fail, surgical options such as trabeculectomy or drainage implants can help relieve pressure.
- Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS): A newer, less invasive option to treat mild to moderate cases of glaucoma.
Dr. Suraj Munjal will tailor the treatment plan based on the type and severity of glaucoma to achieve the best results.
Cost of Glaucoma Treatment and Stay in India
India has become a preferred destination for affordable, high-quality medical care. The cost of glaucoma treatment in India is significantly lower compared to many other countries, without compromising on quality.
- Medications: Starting from $50 to $200 annually, depending on the type.
- Laser Treatment: Costs range between $500 to $2,000.
- Surgical Treatment: Prices typically range between $1,500 and $4,000, depending on the procedure.