Glaucoma - How To Detect It?

A common condition often missed until late in the disease, this disease is usually associated with rise in eye pressure and slow progressive damage of the optic nerve Symptoms that will help a doctor identify this condition in people:-

Majority of the times glaucoma has no symptom until late in the disease and hence regular screening is needed

Symptoms:

a) A loss of peripheral vision may be noted in the early stages of glaucoma. 

b) A person may see halos when in the presence of bright lights.

c) Brow ache and eye pain.

d) Watery and enlarged eyes are often seen in childhood glaucoma

How to diagnose the symptoms of Glaucoma in a person:-

A fundamental eye examination- An experienced eye doctor will check the eyesight, eye pressure, perform a gonioscopy (to decide type of glaucoma) and examine the nerve of the eye (optic nerve) The extent of damage is documented by tests like optic nerve imaging (OCT) and test of field of vision (perimetry)

Ways to treat Glaucoma in a person:-

1. Majority of the times eye drops to reduced eye pressure are sufficient to control glaucoma
2. Laser is indicated in angle closure glaucoma and in some types of open angle glaucoma
3. Surgery is needed in childhood glaucoma and in adult glaucoma not controlled with medicines and laser