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Can I have glaucoma?

Anyone can develop glaucoma especially once over the age of 40 years. However, people with a family history or with diabetes or hypertension are at an increased risk of developing this condition.

What happens if I have glaucoma?

Once glaucoma has been confirmed, your doctor prescribes medications best suited for your condition in order that your intraocular pressure is reduced. You must be very compliant with the application of these eye drops as these are essential in preventing further damage to your eye. In certain cases, laser may be required to create an alternate pathway for drainage of fluid from the eye.

Is this laser a painful procedure?

No. It is a simple outpatient procedure that requires no injection and is pain free. It simply involves using the YAG laser to create another outflow channel in your eye that helps decrease the intraocular pressure.

Can I get glaucoma if one of my parents has it?

Yes. Those with a family history of glaucoma have a greater risk of developing it once over the age of 40 years. If you have a family history then it is advised that you have a regular eye check up atleast annually after the age of 40 years.

What happens when I come to the hospital for a checkup?

During your visit to our hospital, you will first be taken through a routine check up of your refraction by a team of qualified optometrists. A routine glaucoma workup includes measurement of intraocular pressure, corneal thickness and angle evaluation. If the consultant thinks you need a prophylactic laser iridotomy, this may be advised and done on the same day. If not your pupils are dilated and the optic nerve is evaluated. Any suspicion of glaucoma may require the consultant to ask for more tests. Following dilatation, it maybe difficult to read or drive for several hours after the visit.

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