Introduction
Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” because it can steal your vision without warning. At Transcend Eye Hospital, we are dedicated to catching this condition early and managing it effectively. Let’s explore what glaucoma is, its risks, and how we protect your eyesight.
What Is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve—the critical link between your eye and brain—usually due to high intraocular pressure (IOP). This pressure builds when the eye’s fluid (aqueous humor) doesn’t drain properly, pressing on the optic nerve and causing irreversible vision loss if untreated.
Types of Glaucoma
- Open-Angle Glaucoma : The most common form, it progresses slowly as drainage channels clog over time.
- Angle-Closure Glaucoma : A rare, sudden type where drainage is blocked abruptly, requiring emergency care.
- Normal-Tension Glaucoma : Optic nerve damage occurs despite normal pressure, linked to poor blood flow.
- Secondary Glaucoma : Caused by injury, inflammation, or other conditions.
Causes and Risk Factors
While the exact cause varies, key factors include:
- Age : Risk rises after 60.
- Family History : Genetics play a significant role.
- High Eye Pressure : Elevated IOP is a primary trigger.
- Medical Conditions : Diabetes, hypertension, or past eye injuries increase risk.
- Ethnicity : Africans and Asians face higher rates.
Symptoms
Open-angle glaucoma often has no early symptoms, making regular screenings vital. Advanced stages show:
- Peripheral vision loss (tunnel vision).
- Blurred vision or halos around lights.
- Angle-closure glaucoma strikes suddenly with:
- Severe eye pain.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Sudden vision loss.
Diagnosis at Transcend
Our comprehensive exams include tonometry to measure IOP, gonioscopy to inspect drainage angles, and optic nerve imaging. Early detection is our priority, especially for at-risk patients.
Treatment Options
We tailor treatments to your glaucoma type and stage:
- Eye Drops : Medications like prostaglandins or beta-blockers lower pressure by improving drainage or reducing fluid production.
- Laser Therapy : Procedures like selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) enhance drainage with minimal discomfort.
- Surgery : For advanced cases, we offer trabeculectomy or minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) to create new drainage paths.
- Monitoring : Regular follow-ups track progression and adjust care.
Why Transcend Excels
Led by experts like Dr. Dara Kilmartin, our team uses cutting-edge technology to manage glaucoma effectively. Our 24/7 availability ensures urgent cases, like angle-closure attacks, get immediate attention.
Living with Glaucoma
While vision loss can’t be reversed, early treatment preserves sight. Patients manage well with consistent care, and our rehabilitation services support those with advanced damage.
Prevention and Awareness
Schedule annual exams after 40, especially if you have risk factors. Lifestyle choices like exercise and a balanced diet may also help lower IOP.
Conclusion
Glaucoma doesn’t have to define your future. At Transcend Eye Hospital, we’re equipped to fight this silent threat. Contact us for a screening and protect your vision today!
