HOW PREVALENT IS GLAUCOMA?
More than 12 million people in India suffer from glaucoma. Studies have shown that this figure may be much more, as glaucoma remains undiagnosed in most people, until they seek attention of an eye specialist for some other problem.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF GLAUCOMA?
Most cases of glaucoma are asymptomatic. That is why it is even more dangerous- by the time you consult an ophthalmologist, you might have lost major part of your vision to this disease. Some early symptoms of glaucoma include frequent change in glasses, decreased vision, eye pain and headache. A type of glaucoma known as Angle closure glaucoma may present more acutely, in the form of sudden onset of severe pain, redness, and decrease in vision, often accompanied by nausea or vomiting. This form of glaucoma requires urgent treatment as it can lead to very rapid, irreversible loss of vision.

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OR RISK FACTORS OF GLAUCOMA?
Age, family history of glaucoma specially in first degree relative, previous history of eye trauma, high refractive error, diabetes are some of the risk factors of glaucoma. However, it may be present even in the absence of any identifiable risk factor.

HOW DO I KNOW I HAVE GLAUCOMA?
It is best to consult your ophthalmologist to rule out glaucoma, as a routine when you are above 40 years of age, and earlier if you have a family history of glaucoma, or other risk factors stated above. Your doctor will run several tests on your eyes such as Intraocular pressure measurement, gonioscopy, perimetry, disc evaluation and if necessary, scans of your disc. All these are available at Apollo prime eye Hospitals.

HOW CAN IT BE TREATED?
Glaucoma cannot be cured, but it can be managed in a way that it does not harm your vision any further. This can be done by reducing your intra-ocular pressure through eye drops, laser procedures or surgery.

WHAT ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT POINTS TO BE TAKEN CARE OF, IF I HAVE GLAUCOMA?
Strict compliance with the treatment regiment and regular follow ups, as well as repeated tests whenever suggested by your ophthalmologist is the only way of saving your vision from this silent thief of sight.