Best Glaucoma treatment in Ahmedabad
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What is glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, often caused by elevated pressure in the eye. If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to vision loss and blindness. It is known as the “silent thief of sight” because it can progress without noticeable symptoms until significant damage has occurred.
Types of glaucoma
- Primary open-angle glaucoma: The most common type, characterized by a gradual increase in eye pressure. It develops slowly and often without symptoms until it has advanced.
- Angle-closure glaucoma: A less common but more serious type where the angle between the iris and cornea closes suddenly, causing a rapid increase in eye pressure.
- Normal-tension glaucoma: This occurs when optic nerve damage happens despite normal eye pressure.
- Congenital glaucoma: Present at birth, it is due to a defect in the eye’s drainage system.
- Secondary glaucoma: Results from other conditions like eye injury, inflammation, or certain medications.
Early-stage symptoms:
- No noticeable symptoms in the beginning stages.
- Gradual loss of peripheral vision (side vision).
- Increased sensitivity to light.
Advanced-stage symptoms:
- Tunnel vision.
- Severe eye pain (in acute cases).
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Redness in the eye.
- Headaches and blurred vision.
- Halos around lights.
- Difficulty adjusting to dark rooms.
Causes of glaucoma
The exact cause of glaucoma can vary depending on the type, but generally, it is linked to an imbalance between the production and drainage of aqueous humor, the fluid inside the eye. Factors that may contribute to glaucoma include:
- Elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) is a significant risk factor.
- A family history of glaucoma increases your risk.
- Risk increases with age, particularly after 60.
- African Americans, Hispanics, and Asians are at higher risk for certain types of glaucoma.
- Conditions like high myopia (nearsightedness) or previous eye injury can increase the risk.
- Conditions such as diabetes and hypertension may contribute to the development of glaucoma.
- Long-term use of corticosteroids can increase the risk.
- Poor blood flow to the optic nerve, which may contribute to optic nerve damage.
Complications of glaucoma
If left untreated or poorly managed, glaucoma can lead to several complications, including:
- The most serious complication is irreversible vision loss or blindness.
- Progressive damage to the optic nerve can result in severe visual impairment.
- Failure to control eye pressure can exacerbate the condition and lead to further nerve damage.
- In cases of angle-closure glaucoma, a sudden increase in eye pressure can cause severe pain, nausea, and even vision loss.
- Surgical treatments carry risks such as infection, bleeding, or complications related to the healing process.
Diagnosis of glaucoma
Diagnosing glaucoma involves several tests to measure eye pressure and assess the health of the optic nerve. Common diagnostic procedures include:
- Tonometry: Measures the pressure inside the eye.
- Ophthalmoscopy: Examines the optic nerve for damage.
- Perimetry: Tests the visual field to detect any loss of peripheral vision.
- Gonioscopy: Evaluates the angle where the iris meets the cornea.
- Pachymetry: Measures the thickness of the cornea, as thin corneas can be associated with a higher risk of glaucoma.
- OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography): Provides detailed images of optic nerve structure.
Treatments of glaucoma
Medications
Prescription eye drops or oral medications are commonly used to lower intraocular pressure (IOP) and manage glaucoma. These medications work by either decreasing the production of eye fluid or improving its drainage.
Laser therapy
Laser procedures can help in reducing eye pressure and improving fluid drainage. Common laser treatments include:
- Laser trabeculoplasty: Improves fluid drainage in the eye.
- Laser Iridotomy: Creates a small hole in the iris to relieve pressure in angle-closure glaucoma.
Surgical procedures
In some cases, surgery may be required to create a new drainage path for eye fluid or to reduce fluid production. Options include:
- Trabeculectomy: Creates a new drainage channel.
- Tube shunt surgery: Implants a small tube to facilitate fluid drainage.
- Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS): Uses small incisions and implants to reduce eye pressure with less risk of complications.
Lifestyle & Home remedies
While medical treatments are crucial, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can support overall eye health. Recommendations include:
- Regular eye exams to monitor eye pressure and disease progression.
- Adhering to prescribed medication regimens.
- Healthy diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Regular exercise, which can help lower eye pressure.
- Stress management as high stress can increase eye pressure, so relaxation techniques may help.
Why choose Krisha Eye hospital in Ahmedabad for glaucoma treatment?
At Krisha Eye hospital in Ahmedabad, our team of expert ophthalmologists is dedicated to providing top-notch glaucoma care. Here’s why you should choose us:
- Advanced technology: We use the latest diagnostic tools and treatment methods.
- Expert team: Our specialists have extensive experience in managing and treating all types of glaucoma.
- Personalized care: We tailor treatment plans based on individual needs and conditions.
- Comprehensive services: From diagnosis to treatment and follow-up care, we offer a complete range of glaucoma services.
- Patient education: We provide thorough explanations and support to help you understand your condition and treatment options.
What our patients say
Author bio
Dr. Dhwani Maheshwari, an esteemed ophthalmologist with over 8 years of experience, leads Krisha Eye Hospital in Ahmedabad with a commitment to advanced, patient-centered eye care. Specializing in cataract and refractive surgery, Dr. Maheshwari has performed more than a thousand successful surgeries. Her expertise lies in phacoemulsification, a technique recognized for its precision in cataract treatment.
Dr. Maheshwari’s educational journey includes an MBBS from Smt. NHL MMC, a DOMS from M & J Institute of Ophthalmology, and a DNB in Ophthalmology from Mahatme Eye Bank Eye Hospital, Nagpur. She also completed a fellowship in phacoemulsification at Porecha Blindness Trust Hospital, further enhancing her surgical skills. In addition to her work at Krisha Eye Hospital, Dr. Maheshwari serves as a consultant ophthalmologist at Northstar Diagnostic Centre.
Under her leadership, Krisha Eye Hospital aims to bring all superspecialties under one roof, offering comprehensive eye care solutions for all vision needs.
FAQs related to Glaucoma treatment
The cost of glaucoma treatment can vary depending on the specific treatment required and individual patient factors. We strive to provide affordable and transparent pricing. For detailed information on costs, contact or visit our hospital.
Our success rate for glaucoma treatments is high due to our commitment to using advanced technology and personalized care. While success can vary depending on individual factors and the severity of the condition, many of our patients experience significant improvements in eye pressure control and preservation of vision. For specific success rates and patient outcomes, please discuss with our specialists during your consultation.
You can book an appointment by contacting our hospital directly through phone number, or by using the online appointment system.
Yes, we welcome patients seeking a second opinion. Our specialists will review your existing diagnosis and treatment plan, providing you with a comprehensive evaluation and discussing alternative options if necessary. We are committed to ensuring you are comfortable and confident in your treatment plan.
During your initial consultation, our specialists will perform a thorough eye exam, including tests to measure eye pressure and assess optic nerve health. We will discuss your medical history, symptoms, and treatment options, and develop a personalized treatment plan based on your needs.
After your glaucoma treatment, we provide comprehensive follow-up care to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed. Regular check-ups will be scheduled to track your eye pressure and overall eye health, ensuring that your treatment is effective and that any issues are promptly addressed.