Glaucoma is the optic nerve damage that occurs due to fluid buildup in the eye. It is the most common reason for vision loss in the world.
This pressure, known as intraocular pressure, can lead to vision loss for a lifetime. As a result, a person may go completely blind within a few years.
Surprisingly, it does not have any early symptoms or pain. This is why you need to be careful and go for regular eye checkups even if you don’t feel or experience any symptoms.
Here are some common ways to diagnose Glaucoma and some possible treatment options.
How to Diagnose Glaucoma?
One of the easiest ways to diagnose Glaucoma is going to an optometrist for simple tests. For this purpose, your doctor will test your vision by using drops to dilate your pupils and examine your eyes.
The doctor will take a closer look at your optic nerve to find the signs of Glaucoma. The tests known as tonometry are essential to check eye pressure. Moreover, they can do a visual field test to check your peripheral vision. If your eye condition is not clear, the doctor can suggest further tests for knowing the reasons for Glaucoma.
How to Treat Glaucoma?
Your doctor may suggest several treatments like using eye drops, laser treatments, and microsurgery.
1. Eye Drops
First, doctors often prescribe using eye drops to lower the buildup of fluid in your eyes. In this way, your eye pressure can decrease. It is important to note that eye drops can cause side effects like redness, allergies, stinging, irritated eyes, and blurred vision. In addition, glaucoma medications can have adverse effects on your lungs and heart. In case of severe side effects, you can discuss taking other medication with your doctor or use other treatment methods.
2. Oral Medication
Another option for treatment is an oral medication that your doctor may suggest. Common medications include beta-blocker or carbonic anhydrase inhibitors. When you take these medications as per the doctor’s prescription, you can lower the pressure and fluid buildup in your eyes.
3. Surgery
Surgery is typically more effective than eye drops and laser treatment options. It can help you achieve faster results, but it cannot restore or cure Glaucoma completely. Moreover, there are different types of surgeries that are effective in treating Glaucoma. Still, it depends on your condition’s severity level and type, which surgery your eye specialist will recommend to you.
Bottom Line
Glaucoma is an eye condition associated with damage in the optic nerve that becomes a serious concern in some cases; it can cause permanent blindness. So, it is essential to diagnose and treat it early to save from permanent damage.
