What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve — the vital link between your eyes and brain. It is called the "silent thief of sight" because it progresses painlessly and without symptoms until significant irreversible vision loss has occurred. It is the second leading cause of blindness worldwide.
The most common form, primary open-angle glaucoma, is associated with elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). However, normal tension glaucoma can occur even with normal eye pressure. Early diagnosis and consistent treatment can halt progression and preserve remaining vision.
Types of Glaucoma We Treat
- Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG): The most common form. Slowly progressive peripheral vision loss.
- Angle-Closure Glaucoma: Sudden, painful attack — a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment.
- Normal Tension Glaucoma: Optic nerve damage despite normal eye pressure.
- Secondary Glaucoma: Due to diabetes, trauma, inflammation or steroid use.
- Congenital Glaucoma: Present from birth — requires early surgical intervention.
- Pseudoexfoliative & Pigmentary Glaucoma
Glaucoma Treatment Options
- Medical (Eye Drops): First line — various classes of drops reduce IOP effectively when used consistently.
- Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT): Selective laser to the drainage angle to lower eye pressure without drops.
- Laser Iridotomy: For angle-closure glaucoma — laser creates a small opening in the iris to restore drainage.
- Trabeculectomy: Surgical drainage procedure creating a new outflow pathway for severe cases.
- Tube Shunt Surgery: Glaucoma drainage device implantation for refractory glaucoma.
- MIGS (Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery): Modern micro-procedures combined with cataract surgery.
Our Diagnostic Capabilities
- Automated Humphrey Visual Field Analysis (Gold standard perimetry)
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) of optic nerve and RNFL
- Goldmann Applanation Tonometry for accurate IOP measurement
- Gonioscopy for drainage angle assessment
- Pachymetry (corneal thickness — affects IOP readings)
- Optic disc photography and stereoscopic fundus examination
Who Should Get Screened?
- Age over 40 years — especially with family history of glaucoma
- Diabetics and hypertensive patients
- Patients with high myopia or hyperopia
- Long-term steroid users (topical, oral or inhaled)
- Previous eye injuries or surgeries
- Anyone with eye pressure above 21 mmHg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can glaucoma be cured? ▾
Glaucoma cannot currently be cured, but it can be very effectively controlled. With appropriate treatment, most patients retain functional vision throughout their lives. The key is early detection and consistent treatment adherence.
Is glaucoma hereditary? ▾
Yes, glaucoma has a significant genetic component. First-degree relatives (parents, siblings, children) of glaucoma patients have a 4–9 times higher risk. All family members should be screened regularly from age 40.
How often do I need follow-up for glaucoma? ▾
Initially every 1–3 months to assess treatment response, then every 6 months once stable. Visual field tests and OCT are typically done every 6–12 months to monitor for progression.
Will glaucoma eye drops affect my lifestyle? ▾
Most patients adapt to drops easily. They are used once or twice daily. The most common side effect is mild stinging or redness. Some drops can affect heart rate (beta-blockers) — Dr. V. K. Bansal will choose drops suited to your health profile.
Have Questions? Talk to Our Expert
Book a consultation with Dr. VK Bansal at Bansal Eye Hospital, Ambala.