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Glaucoma Treatment - Diagnosis, Surgery & Recovery (Highest Sucess Rate)

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that result in degeneration of the optic nerve and permanent loss of vision if not treated in time. Book a consultation today with Pristyn Care to undergo safe and effective glaucoma in India

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that result in degeneration of the ... Read More

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    Dr. Piyush Kapur (1WZI1UcGZY)

    Dr. Piyush Kapur

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    Dr. Varun Gogia

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    Dr. Prerana Tripathi

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    Dr. Chanchal Gadodiya

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What is Glaucoma Treatment?

Glaucoma treatment typically targets reducing intraocular pressure (IOP) within your eyes. The optic nerve, consisting of about one million nerve fibres connecting the back of the eye to the brain, is often damaged due to increased IOP. This may result in irreversible vision loss. So, glaucoma treatment is crucial, aiming not only at lowering IOP but also at preventing or slowing down vision loss. Depending on the type and severity of glaucoma, as well as individual patient factors, the proper treatment is chosen. It could include medications, laser therapy, or even surgical procedures. The treatments are usually performed by an experienced ophthalmologist and can successfully aid in managing glaucoma.

• Disease name

Glaucoma

• Surgery name

Trabeculectomy/ Glaucoma Implant Surgery / MIGS

• Duration

1 to 2 hours

• Treated by

Ophthalmologist

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What are the Types of Glaucoma Treatment?

Understanding the types of glaucoma treatments allows for better management of this eye condition. Here are the most common forms:

  • Eyedrops: The most widely used treatment for glaucoma are eye drops that either decrease fluid production in the eye or aid its outward flow. They include prostaglandins, beta blockers, alpha-adrenergic agonists, and carbonic anhydrase inhibitors.
  • Laser Therapy: Laser treatments like argon laser trabeculoplasty (ALT), selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT), and micropulse laser trabeculoplasty (MLT) are employed to facilitate better fluid drainage from the eye.

Surgery: When other treatment methods fail to yield the desired result, surgical procedures are opted for. The most common surgical method is a trabeculectomy. It involves removing a part of the eye-drainage tubes to allow fluid to drain more freely, thereby reducing IOP.

Are you going through any of these symptoms?

Diagnosis before Glaucoma Treatment

Glaucoma is a range of eye conditions that can lead to vision loss and even blindness by causing damage to the optic nerve. Before embarking on treatment options, it is essential to confirm the diagnosis through several tests. These tests typically include:

  • Tonometry to measure Intraocular Pressure (IOP): This process involves numbing the eye with anaesthetic drops and gently pressing a device against the eye to determine the pressure inside.
  • Optic nerve examination: The doctor uses a slit-lamp microscope and pupil dilating drops to check the optic nerve for signs of damage or unusual shape or colour.
  • Visual field testing: This test maps peripheral vision and checks for blind spots or areas of vision loss.
  • Pachymetry to measure corneal thickness: The thickness of the cornea can affect IOP readings, so this measure is critical for accurate diagnosis.
  • Gonioscopy to inspect the drainage angle: This test helps ascertain whether glaucoma is open or closed-angle by examining the eye’s drainage angle.

Imaging tests like Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): These tests help visualise and assess damage to the optic nerve.

What is the Procedure for Glaucoma Treatment?

When it comes to treating glaucoma, a step-by-step approach is followed:

  • Medication: Before surgery, patients may be prescribed eye drops or oral medications to bring down intraocular pressure. Examples include Prostaglandins, Beta blockers, Alpha-adrenergic agonists, and Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors.
  • Anaesthesia: Depending on the surgical procedure, either local or general anaesthesia will be administered.

The surgical procedure could involve:

  • Laser Surgery: This includes Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) that enhances fluid drainage through the trabecular meshwork and Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI) that treats angle-closure glaucoma by creating a small hole in the iris to facilitate drainage.
  • Incisional Surgery: This may involve procedures like Trabeculectomy, where a small opening is made in the sclera for fluid to drain from the eye, Aqueous Shunt Surgery, where a small tube is introduced to drain excess fluid and lower intraocular pressure, or Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS), involving tiny instruments to improve fluid drainage with lesser risk and faster recovery.

After undergoing glaucoma treatment, several measures are taken such as:

  • Eye drops will be administered to the patient to prevent infection and minimise inflammation.
  • Regular follow-up appointments with the ophthalmologist are vital to monitor the healing process and adjust the treatment plan as required.

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Who is the Right Candidate for Glaucoma Treatment?

The decision for glaucoma treatment is often based on a patient’s symptoms, visual impairment, risk factors, and the impact of the disease on their quality of life. Some factors that may indicate the need for treatment include:

  • Elevated eye pressure: Although not all people with high eye pressure will develop glaucoma, it’s a significant risk factor that may warrant treatment.
  • Optic nerve damage: If tests show damage to the optic nerve, treatment may be necessary to prevent further harm.
  • Vision loss: If glaucoma has already caused visual field loss or blind spots, it’s crucial to start treatment to prevent further vision loss.
  • Corneal Thickness: A thin cornea could be a risk factor for glaucoma.
  • Drainage Angle: If the drainage angle in your eye is narrow or closed, you might require glaucoma treatment.

Remember, it is essential to follow your eye doctor’s advice regarding the need for glaucoma treatment based on your individual condition. Regular eye check-ups are crucial for the early diagnosis and timely treatment of this potentially sight-threatening condition.

What are the Benefits of Glaucoma Treatment?

Glaucoma, a serious eye disease that can lead to blindness if left untreated, does have treatments that can be very beneficial. When administered properly, these treatments can greatly improve the overall quality of life for patients. Here are some key benefits:

  • Slowing or preventing further vision loss: The chief aim of glaucoma treatment is to lower intraocular pressure (IOP), the force exerted in the eyes, to prevent or slow down damage to the optic nerve and preserve remaining vision.
  • Preserving eyesight: By reducing IOP, treatment can protect the optic nerve from irreversible damage and blindness. Glaucoma is the leading cause of preventable blindness.
  • Improved quality of life: Maintaining vision allows patients to continue living independently and carry out normal daily activities.
  • Reduced risk of blindness: Early detection and treatment of glaucoma can significantly reduce the risk of blindness. Statistically, only 5% of those with glaucoma experience blindness, while around 1 in 10 people develop some degree of visual impairment.

Potential for long-term control: Many treatments, such as laser therapy and some types of surgery, can provide long-term control of IOP, lasting for years in some cases.

How to Prepare for Glaucoma Treatment?

Just like any medical or surgical intervention, adequate preparation is key for successful outcomes in glaucoma treatment. Here are some steps patients need to follow:

  • Stop certain medications: Patients should refrain from taking medications that can increase the risk of bleeding, like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), aspirin, or other blood thinners.
  • Take prescribed medications: Patients should adhere to any prescribed medications, if any, before the surgery, as directed by their eye surgeon.
  • Avoid food and drink: Depending on the type of procedure, patients may be asked to avoid food and drink for a certain period before the surgery.
  • Eye drops or medications: Patients will be guided to use eye drops or medications prior to surgery to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.
  • Arrange transportation: Considering the recovery period, patients should arrange transportation to and from the hospital.

Stock up on essentials: To ensure comfortable rest after surgery, it is wise to stock up on basic food items and necessities.

What are the Recovery Tips and Precautions to follow after Glaucoma Treatment?

Recovering from glaucoma treatment requires diligence and adherence to certain guidelines. Here are some crucial recovery tips:

  • Avoid strenuous activities: Post-surgery, patients should refrain from strenuous activities like heavy lifting or bending for several weeks to avoid complications and promote healing.
  • Protect the eye: Using an eye cover until the following day can help prevent accidental trauma. In case of no vision in the other eye, a perforated eye shield can be used.
  • Maintain hygiene: Keep the face clean and avoid touching the eye. Hands should be washed before applying eye drops and bending forward or touching the operated eye should be avoided.
  • Manage inflammation and pain: Prescribed anti-inflammatory eye drops can be used to manage any eye pain along with mild analgesics.
  • Follow-up appointments: Regular check-ups with the eye surgeon can help monitor the healing process and detect any postoperative complications early.
  • Stay alert for signs of complications: Report any rapid deterioration of vision, increased redness, pain, or eye discharge to your doctor immediately.
  • Avoid rubbing your eyes: To avoid potential damage and loss of sight, resist the urge to rub your eyes.

Refrain from driving: Give your eyes some time to heal before you start driving again. In the meantime, use public transport or rely on someone else for your transportation needs.

Potential Risks or Complications associated with Glaucoma Treatment

While glaucoma treatments come with several benefits, there are a few risks and complications that patients need to be aware of:

  • Retinal complications after glaucoma surgeries: These may include choroidal detachment, ocular decompression retinopathy, and others.
  • Complications linked to filtering surgery: Infections, cataracts, bleeding, hypotony etc., can occur as a result of filtering surgery such as trabeculectomy.
  • Complications of drainage devices: Tube shunts can lead to complications like conjunctival scarring and postoperative hypotony.
  • Intraocular pressure rise: Procedures like scleral buckle, pars plana vitrectomy etc., can cause an increase in intraocular pressure.

Side effects of glaucoma medications: Eye drops and oral medications can cause side effects like allergies, redness, and blurred vision. Some medications may also affect the heart and lungs.

What is the Cost of Glaucoma Treatment in India?

Glaucoma, one of the leading causes of blindness in India, is a severe medical condition that requires timely treatment. However, it is important to note that the cost of glaucoma treatment can vary significantly. It can range from being affordable to slightly expensive. Several factors contribute to this variation in cost, including:

  • Type of treatment: There are different types of glaucoma, each requiring a specific course of treatment. Medication costs, for instance, can range from 42% for mild glaucoma to 56% for advanced glaucoma.
  • Severity of glaucoma: Naturally, more severe cases demand more extensive and costly treatments, such as surgery.
  • Age and income: These factors also impact the cost of treatment. For example, those in the low-income group may spend a larger portion of their income on treatment compared to individuals in the high-income group.
  • Hospital and surgeon fees: The operations theatre (OT) charges and surgeon’s fees can significantly influence the overall cost of glaucoma surgery.
  • Duration of treatment: As with any health condition, longer treatment durations will lead to higher costs.

Type of medication: The cost and frequency of medication use also affect the overall expenditure on glaucoma treatment.

Is Glaucoma Treatment covered under Insurance?

Yes, glaucoma treatment is generally covered by health insurance policies in India. It is considered a medical necessity due to its potential to cause irreversible blindness if left untreated. The following expenses related to glaucoma treatment are typically covered:

  • Pre-surgery consultations and diagnostic tests
  • Hospitalisation charges, including room rent
  • Surgeon’s fees
  • Anaesthesia charges
  • Post-operative follow-up consultations

Nonetheless, bear in mind that there are also certain exclusions under health insurance policies for glaucoma treatment. These can include the cost of any implants or prosthetics unless stated otherwise, expenses connected to complications that arise during or post-surgery, and any expenses that are not directly linked to glaucoma treatment.

In conclusion, while glaucoma treatment is covered by health insurance policies in India, it is essential to read and understand your policy thoroughly to ensure effective coverage of your treatment costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can glaucoma blindness be reversed?

Glaucoma is often referred to as the “silent thief of sight” because it can gradually steal vision without any warning signs. Unfortunately, any damage to the eye’s optic nerve due to glaucoma cannot be reversed. This makes early detection and treatment crucial to prevent significant vision loss or blindness.

What are the different types of medicinal options for glaucoma?

Numerous eye drops are available which decrease eye pressure, either by slowing the production of fluids within the eye or by improving fluid drainage. Medicines are also available in pill form. Your doctor could prescribe a suitable medication or a combination of medications based on your specific condition.

How do laser treatments work for glaucoma?

Laser treatments are used as an alternative or in addition to medication in glaucoma management. They work by creating tiny openings in the eye’s natural drainage system to improve fluid outflow and lower intraocular pressure, or they inhibit fluid production in the eye.

Are there any lifestyle changes one can make to manage glaucoma better?

Yes, certain lifestyle changes can help manage glaucoma. Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight, controlling blood pressure and blood sugar levels, avoiding excessive caffeine, limiting your fluid intake at any one time, and avoiding head-down positions in yoga or exercises can all contribute to better management of glaucoma.

Can traditional Indian Ayurvedic treatment help in managing glaucoma?

While Ayurveda may help in general well-being and potentially slowing disease progression through its holistic approach, it must not be used as a substitute for scientifically proven treatments for glaucoma. Always consult with your doctor before initiating any complementary therapy.

What role does family history play in developing glaucoma?

A family history of glaucoma makes you more susceptible to developing this condition. If your parents or siblings have glaucoma, you are at a significantly increased risk. Regular eye check-ups are crucial in such cases for early detection and treatment.

How can one continue with daily activities post glaucoma treatment?

Post glaucoma treatment, daily activities can usually be resumed after a brief period of rest. It is advisable to avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities as per your doctor’s advice. Regular follow-ups with the eye doctor, taking prescribed medication, and maintaining overall health are important components to support recovery.

Do people with certain types of glaucoma need more aggressive treatment?

Yes, the type and stage of glaucoma significantly influence the treatment intensity. For instance, primary open-angle glaucoma usually progresses slowly and initially may only require monitoring. In contrast, acute angle-closure glaucoma is a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment to prevent severe vision loss.

Can glaucoma be prevented?

While glaucoma cannot be prevented, the risk of significant vision loss can be reduced with early detection and prompt treatment. Regular eye examinations are crucial, especially if you have high risk factors such as age above 60 years, family history of glaucoma, diabetes or hypertension.

What is the prognosis for individuals who have undergone treatment for glaucoma?

With timely detection and appropriate treatment, most individuals with glaucoma will not lose their sight. Regular follow-ups with your doctor and adherence to recommended treatments are essential to control the disease progression effectively.

What is the best treatment for glaucoma?

The best treatment for glaucoma depends on various factors, including the type of glaucoma, the severity of the condition, the patient’s overall health, and their individual circumstances. Non-surgical treatments like eye drops and oral medications are generally used as initial treatments to manage eye pressure. However, surgery, although more invasive, can achieve better eye pressure control faster than drops or lasers.

Can I use contact lenses if I have glaucoma?

People with glaucoma can wear contact lenses, but it’s crucial to consult your eye care expert for guidance on proper contact lens use and care.

How long does it take for the vision to get clear after glaucoma operation?

The operated eyes may remain blurry for up to 6 weeks after surgery. As this goes away, your vision will be as good as it was before surgery.

What are the side effects of glaucoma eye drops?

Side effects differ amongst drops and can range from irritation, redness, burning, and blurry vision to more general symptoms like shortness of breath, low blood pressure, fatigue, dizziness, sleep disturbance, and change in taste.

Does glaucoma affect only the elderly?

Glaucoma is more common with increasing age. However, glaucoma can occur at all ages, including children

What is tunnel vision?

If glaucoma is not effectively managed at an early stage, the disease can cause severe peripheral vision loss, resulting in a condition called tunnel vision. Tunnel vision obstructs the side vision and limits the field of vision to strictly seeing images in the central vision or straight ahead.

What are the main stages of glaucoma?

Glaucoma is often categorized into two main stages: early or mild stage and advanced stage. The early stage may have minimal symptoms, while the advanced stage involves substantial optic nerve damage and vision loss.

How is acute congestive glaucoma different from chronic open-angle glaucoma?

Acute congestive glaucoma is a sudden and severe growth in intraocular pressure due to a clogged drainage angle, causing rapid symptoms. Chronic open-angle glaucoma evolves slowly over time and often has no noticeable symptoms in its early stages.

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Medically Reviewed By
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Dr. Piyush Kapur
28 Years Experience Overall
Last Updated : February 22, 2025