Glaucoma-Treatment

Best Glaucoma Treatment in South India

"Glaucoma treatment varies based on individual needs. Consult qualified
ophthalmologists in South India for personalized solutions.

Best Glaucoma Treatment In South India

GLAUCOMA

Best Glaucoma Treatment In South India

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, the pathway connecting your eye to your brain. This damage is often caused by increased pressure inside the eye. If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to permanent vision loss and even blindness.

Best Glaucoma Treatment In South India

PROCEDURES AND SERVICES

We have state-of-the-art facilities required for the diagnosis and management of glaucoma. We at The Eye Foundation provides the best glaucoma treatment and its related surgeries at an affordable cost

Initial workup includes measurement of intraocular pressure (IOP) with help of Goldmann’s Applanation tonometer. Usually, IOP for normal individuals should be <21 mmHg. Any values more than that warrants further glaucoma evaluation for glaucoma surgery.

Glaucoma-PROCEDURES-AND-SERVICES

Measurement of central corneal thickness is mandatory before starting the patient on medications. It is done using Pachymeter which measures corneal thickness and gives us adjusted intraocular pressure.

The angle of the anterior or iritis chamber is assessed by gonioscopy lens and if found occludable and left untreated can lead to an angle-closure attack. This is further confirmed by Ultrasound BioMicroscopy (UBM) and if the angles are confirmed to be narrow, the patient is advised Nd: YAG Laser iridotomy in which a laser beam is used to open up the blocked passage. It is painless and is done on an outpatient basis.

Glaucoma-Goniocscopy-facility
Glaucoma-YAG-Laser-iridotomy

Visual field analysis is an integral part of glaucoma management. We have Zeiss Humphrey’s Field analyzer which allows us to interpret visual fields, locate non seeing areas of patients and to assess progression and plan or change medications accordingly.

Glaucoma- Humphrey-Field-Analysis

Stereoscopic photographs of disc for documentation and progression are taken on Heidelberg fundus camera.

Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), the latest advancement, gives us an analysis of optic nerve head and retinal nerve fiber layer, the parts of the eye which are first affected in glaucoma. We have Optovue Spectral Domain OCT which gives high resolution, 3D images of retina and optic nerve to assess the severity of damage and it also measures progression of glaucoma.

Glaucoma-in-OCT

Although medical management is the mainstay of glaucoma treatment and medications, some patients with advanced glaucoma, with co-existing cataracts, not controlled by medical therapy, for such patients glaucoma laser surgery is the treatment of choice.

What’s the treatment for glaucoma?

At The Eye Foundation, we offer a range of personalized treatment options to manage glaucoma and preserve your vision. Our experienced ophthalmologists will work with you to create a treatment plan that best suits your specific needs and preferences. Here are some of the options we offer:

Glaucoma Medicines

Eye drops are often the first line of defense, and understanding their types and benefits is key to your treatment journey.

What types of eye drops can help glaucoma? Eye Drops For Glaucoma

Several types of eye drops work in different ways to lower eye pressure:

1. Prostaglandin Analogs:
  • Increase fluid drainage from the eye.
  • Examples: Xalatan (latanoprost), Lumigan (bimatoprost), Travatan Z (travoprost).
  • Benefits: Effective, long-lasting, once-daily dosing.
  • Side effects: Eye redness, eyelash growth, iris color change.
2. Beta-blockers:
  • Reduce fluid production within the eye.
  • Examples: Betoptic (betaxolol), Timoptic (timolol).
  • Benefits: Well-established, lower cost.
  • Side effects: Dry eyes, blurred vision, respiratory problems (rare).
3. Alpha-adrenergic Agonists:
  • Decrease fluid production and improve drainage.
  • Examples: Alphagan P (brimonidine).
  • Benefits: Effective for some, can be used with other drops.
  • Side effects: Redness, burning, drowsiness, headache.
4. Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors:
  • Reduce fluid production within the eye (oral or eye drop form).
  • Examples: Diamox (acetazolamide), Trusopt (dorzolamide).
  • Benefits: Effective for some, can be used with other drops.
  • Side effects: Tingling fingers, fatigue, upset stomach, kidney stones (rare).
5. Rho Kinase Inhibitors:
  • Improve fluid drainage through a different mechanism.
  • Example: Rhopressa (netarsudil).
  • Benefits: Unique mechanism, may be helpful for some.
  • Side effects: Eye redness, blurred vision, headache.

Laser Treatment for Glaucoma

Laser treatment, offered by The Eye Foundation, can be a valuable tool in your treatment plan. But do you need it? Let's explore this option together.

Do I need laser treatment for my glaucoma?

Laser treatment aims to improve drainage of aqueous humor, the fluid within your eye, thus reducing pressure. Several types of laser procedures exist, each with its benefits and limitations:

  • Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT): This minimally invasive procedure stimulates the drainage channels, often used for early-stage glaucoma.
  • Argon Laser Trabeculoplasty (ALT): Similar to SLT, but uses heat to improve drainage, suitable for moderate glaucoma.
  • Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI): Creates a tiny hole in the iris to improve fluid flow, primarily used for angle-closure glaucoma.
Do You Need Laser Treatment?

Whether laser treatment is right for you depends on several factors:

  • Type and severity of glaucoma: Your doctor will evaluate the specific type and stage of your glaucoma to determine if laser treatment is appropriate.
  • Current eye pressure: If medications aren't effectively controlling your pressure, laser treatment might be considered.
  • Individual characteristics: Age, overall health, and other medical conditions are also taken into account.
What happens during laser treatment for glaucoma?

The specific laser procedure used depends on the type of glaucoma you have. Here's a general overview:

Laser Treatment For Glaucoma 1. Preparation:
  • You'll likely sit comfortably in a reclining chair in the doctor's office.
  • Numbing eye drops will be applied to minimize discomfort.
  • A special device may be placed on your eye to hold it open during the procedure.
2. The Laser Procedure:

Depending on the specific technique, the laser beam:

  • Laser Trabeculoplasty: Opens up drainage channels in the eye to improve fluid flow.
  • Laser Peripheral Iridotomy: Creates a tiny hole in the iris to improve fluid passage in angle-closure glaucoma.
  • Cyclodiode Laser Therapy: Shrinks tissue producing fluid in the eye to reduce pressure.
  • The procedure typically takes only a few minutes and is generally painless.
3. After the Procedure:
  • You may experience some temporary blurry vision or minor discomfort.
  • Antibiotic or steroid eye drops might be prescribed to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.
  • Your doctor will likely schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your eye pressure and the health of your optic nerve.
How long does it take to recover?

Understanding the recovery timeline can help you plan accordingly.

Day 1:
  • You may experience mild discomfort, light sensitivity, or blurry vision, which usually disappears within a few hours.
  • Avoid strenuous activity, bending over, and heavy lifting.
  • Use prescribed eye drops as directed.
  • Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure.
Days 2-7:
  • Your vision should gradually improve.
  • Continue using eye drops and follow your doctor's instructions.
  • You can resume most normal activities, but avoid rubbing your eyes.
  • Schedule a follow-up appointment with your doctor to monitor your progress.
Weeks 2-4:
  • Most side effects should have subsided.
  • Your doctor may adjust your eye drop regimen based on your eye pressure measurement.
  • Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to ensure the treatment's effectiveness.
Overall Recovery Time:
  • Most people return to their regular routine within 1-2 weeks.
  • Full recovery can take anywhere from 2-4 weeks, depending on your individual healing process.

Glaucoma Surgery:

Glaucoma implant surgery is usually an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home the same day. However, your vision may be blurry for the first few days. Recovery typically takes several weeks, with regular follow-up appointments scheduled to monitor IOP and the implant's function.

Glaucoma Surgery What is glaucoma implant surgery?

Glaucoma implant surgery is a procedure used to lower IOP when other treatments, such as eye drops or laser procedures, haven't been successful in controlling the pressure. It involves placing a tiny drainage device, also known as a shunt, in the eye to create a new pathway for excess fluid to flow out. This helps to reduce IOP and protect the optic nerve from further damage.

What is minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS)?

MIGS offers a promising advancement in glaucoma treatment. Unlike traditional glaucoma surgeries, which involve larger incisions and potentially longer recovery times, MIGS procedures utilize microscopic instruments and smaller incisions to address the issue of elevated IOP. This leads to several potential benefits:

  • Minimized tissue disruption: Reduced risk of complications and faster healing.
  • Outpatient procedure: Often performed on an outpatient basis, allowing for quicker return home.
  • Combined with cataract surgery: Can be combined with cataract surgery for patients with both conditions.
  • Reduced dependence on eye drops: May decrease the need for multiple daily eye drops for some patients.
The Eye Foundation: Expert Glaucoma Care:

The Eye Foundation is a trusted provider of comprehensive glaucoma treatment, including surgery. Their skilled ophthalmologists will:

  • Conduct a thorough evaluation to determine the best course of action for your individual case.
  • Clearly explain the potential benefits and risks of glaucoma surgery.
  • Address your concerns and answer any questions you have.
  • Provide expert care throughout the surgery and recovery process.
Glaucoma Awarness Offer World Glaucoma Week

FAQ

WHAT IS GLAUCOMA?

Glaucoma is a common eye condition in which fluid pressure inside the eye rises to a level higher than that is healthy for that eye, thereby causing damage to optic nerve leading to irreversible loss of vision and even blindness.

Normal

NORMAL

Mild

MILD

Moderate

MODERATE

Advanced

ADVANCED

WHAT ARE THE TYPES OF GLAUCOMA?

It could be open angle type which is usually asymptomatic and hence gets diagnosed only in later stages. In closed angle type, the eye pressure rises due to block in outflow pathway.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?

It is usually asymptomatic, commonly called as” silent theft. ”It depends on type of glaucoma. Open angle glaucoma do not cause any symptoms, some can compliant of haloes and defective side vision. Acute angle closure glaucoma can cause severe headache, eye pain, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, haloes and redness of eyes.

WHO IS PRONE FOR GLAUCOMA?

Anyone can develop glaucoma after 40 years. If there is a strong family history of glaucoma, they are at high risk. Such patients should get it checked annually.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I HAVE GLAUCOMA?

Once Glaucoma is confirmed, your doctor prescribes medications so that you intra ocular pressure is under control. You must be very compliant with medications as glaucoma is mostly managed by medications. Laser is done for closed angles. Surgical treatment is for those with advanced glaucoma and in those not controlled by medications and in congenital glaucoma.

IS THIS LASER PAINFUL?

No. It is a simple outpatient procedure, requires no injections. It uses laser to create a passage for fluid to egress so that your eye pressure is under control.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN I COME TO HOSPITAL?

During your visit, you will first be taken through a routine checkup of your refraction by a qualified team of optometrist. A routine glaucoma work up includes measurement of intra ocular pressure, corneal thickness and angle evaluation. If your angles are narrow, you would require a prophylactic YAG peripheral iridotomy, which is done on same day. If there is any suspicion of glaucoma by looking at your optic nerve, you might be asked to do further tests like visual fields and OCT. Following dilatation, it might be difficult to drive for several hours. Glaucoma treatment cost is made economical to benefit every patient at our hospital.

DO THE DROPS HAVE ANY SIDE EFFECTS?

Some medications can cause dry eyes. Beta blockers are contra indicated in cardiac patients and asthmatics. Most of the medications are to be avoided in pregnancy and lactation unless benefits exceed the risk.

Glaucoma Helpline: +91-9442217796
Email: glaucoma@theeyefoundation.com

Patient Experience

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