What is glaucoma?

It is a condition where an increase in the eyeball pressure can lead to permanent blindness.

Is glaucoma treatable?

Definitely yes. The problem is that many patients do not know that they have glaucoma and become completely blind before they are seen by a doctor.



How can I know that I have glaucoma?

Unfortunately, glaucoma is known as the “silent thief of sight”. Most of the time, the patient does not realise that they are losing vision. It is a good habit to have your eyes examined by an eye doctor at least once to know if you are at a risk. This is even more important if someone in your family or your elders has lost vision or is under treatment for the disease.

What is an attack of glaucoma?

Just as a heart attack is an emergency, so also an attack of glaucoma is an emergency. If no action is taken, the patient can permanently lose vision.

How can I know that I am at risk for a glaucoma attack?

Your doctor can perform a simple test called gonioscopy to tell you if you are at risk. If so, you can eliminate the risk by a short and simple laser procedure called as laser iridotomy.

What are the normal tests for glaucoma?

The 4 main tests are: eye pressure measurement, gonioscopy, perimetry, and the examination of the optic nerve. All these are simple, painless tests that your eye doctor can easily perform.

What is the best way to check the eye pressure?

The best measurement is made by a simple instrument called applanation tonometer. There are other methods like an air puff but are not as accurate.

What other tests are there for glaucoma?

Some specialised tests like pachymetry and OCT are necessary in some cases.

What is the treatment for glaucoma?

The 3 options are: eye drops, laser treatment and surgery. Each case is different and your doctor can discuss the best treatment for you.

If I have been told that I have glaucoma, will I become blind?

Most patients do not lose their vision. Prompt and regular treatment is most important.

What is the laser treatment for glaucoma?

Known as laser iridotomy, it is a painless procedure without any injection and takes only 5 minutes. There is no eye patch or any restriction for bathing or regular work. There are other laser treatments like laser iridoplasty and diode laser cycloablation that have roles in certain types of glaucoma.

How long do I have to use glaucoma eye drops?

Unless the doctor has asked you to stop the drops, you must continue lifelong.

What should I do if I have forgotten a dose of my glaucoma drops?

If so, you should immediately put the drop as soon as you remember. Try to have a fixed time to put your drops. It also helps if you associate the putting of your drops with another part of your routine, for example 15 minutes after your breakfast and 15 minutes after dinner.

Do glaucoma drops cause dryness of my eyes?

Yes, eye dryness is a major side effect of the drops. Try to ask your doctor to prescribe preservative free glaucoma drops and to prescribe eye lubricant drops.

Should I be afraid of glaucoma?

Yes…and no!
Glaucoma must not be ignored or taken lightly. It is the commonest cause of irreversible blindness in the advanced world. Having said that, you can live a full life with excellent vision if you are careful with your treatment and regular eye check-ups.