Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” because it can creep in without warning, slowly damaging the optic nerve, and causing irreversible vision loss if left untreated. But the good news is that with early diagnosis and timely treatment, glaucoma can be managed effectively.
Modern glaucoma treatments vary from from simple eye drops to advanced laser procedures and surgical interventions. The motive of this blog is helping patients preserve their vision for years to come. Therefore, we will explain these treatment options in a simple, easy-to-understand way. Dive in!
What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is an eye disease that damages the optic nerve – the cable that connects the eye to the brain. This damage is caused by increased intraocular pressure, abbreviated as (IOP).
Normally, a fluid called aqueous humor flows in and out of the eye to maintain healthy pressure. But in the eyes affected with glaucoma, this drainage process is disrupted, causing fluid buildup and raising the pressure inside the eye.
If left unchecked, this pressure damages the optic nerve, leading to gradual vision loss – often starting from loss of peripheral vision and gradually moving inward.
The Goal of Glaucoma Treatment
Since the damage caused to the optic nerve from glaucoma is permanent, its treatment focuses on one key goal – lowering the intraocular pressure. By reducing the eye pressure, the progression of the disease can be slowed down or even halted.
Depending on the type and severity of glaucoma, the following treatments are used:
1. Eye Drops (The First Line of Defence)
For most patients with early-stage glaucoma, eye drops are the first recommended treatment. These drops are of different types and work in different ways:
a) Prostaglandin Analogues
- They increase fluid drainage from the eye
- Examples: Latanoprost, Travoprost, Bimatoprost
- Possible side effects: Redness, eyelash growth, darkening of iris
b) Beta-Blockers
- They reduce fluid production in the eye
- Examples: Timolol, Betaxolol
- Possible side effects: Slow heart rate, low blood pressure, asthma worsening
c) Alpha-Agonists
- They reduce fluid production and increase drainage
- Example: Brimonidine
- Possible side effects: Allergic reactions, dry mouth, fatigue
d) Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors
- They reduce fluid production
- Example: Dorzolamide
- Possible side effects: Tingling sensation, frequent urination, fatigue
A Fact Worth Knowing
Missing doses or improper use of eye drops is one of the most common reasons for glaucoma progression. Consistency is the key!
2. Laser Treatments (Quick & Painless)
If eye drops do not prove effective in controlling eye pressure, your doctor may recommend laser therapy. These procedures are painless and take only a few minutes.
a) Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT)
- This is used mostly for open-angle glaucoma
- It improves drainage through the eye’s natural filter (trabecular meshwork)
- It helps lower eye pressure significantly
- The effects last long but are not permanent
b) Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI)
- It is used for angle-closure glaucoma
- In this treatment, a tiny hole is created in the iris to improve fluid flow
- It prevents sudden eye pressure spikes
c) Cyclophotocoagulation
- This procedure targets the fluid-producing part of the eye (ciliary body)
- It is used in advanced-stage or difficult-to-control glaucoma
3. Surgical Options (For Advanced or Resistant Glaucoma)
When medications and lasers aren’t enough, surgical interventions are required to control glaucoma. The goal of glaucoma surgery is to create new drainage pathways, or to reduce fluid production.
a) Trabeculectomy
- It is the most common type of glaucoma surgery
- In this, a tiny flap is created in the sclera (white part of the eye)
- This flap allows the fluid to drain out
- It is highly effective but requires extensive post-operative care
b) Glaucoma Drainage Devices (Tubes & Shunts)
- These are small devices implanted in the eye
- They direct fluid to a reservoir where it is absorbed
- Useful in complicated glaucoma cases
c) Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS)
- This is a newer, less invasive procedure
- It has a shorter recovery time and fewer complications
- It is often combined with cataract surgery
d) Cyclodestructive Procedures
- These are used in very advanced glaucoma
- They break up a part of the ciliary body to reduce fluid production
How To Choose The Right Glaucoma Treatment
There is no “one-size-fits-all” in glaucoma treatment. The choice depends on several factors like:
- Type of glaucoma
- Stage of the disease
- Age and overall health
- Lifestyle and compliance
- Response to previous treatments
The best way to know the right treatment for yourself is consulting an experienced ophthalmologist. They will carefully assess all the factors before deciding on a treatment plan.
Beyond Treatment – Tips & Tricks
Treating glaucoma is not just about lowering eye pressure. Instead, it is about protecting your vision and enhancing the quality of life. Following are some post-operative care tips for the same:
- Take medications exactly as prescribed
- Attend regular follow-ups for checking eye pressure
- Inform your doctor about any difficulty caused by medications or eye drops
- Lead a healthy lifestyle – exercise regularly, eat a balanced diet, manage stress
- Protect your eyes from injury
The Bottom Line
Glaucoma may be a lifelong condition, but with modern treatment options ranging from simple eye drops to sophisticated surgeries, managing it and protecting your vision has become easier.
The key lies in early detection, timely treatment, and regular monitoring. If you or a loved one has risk factors for glaucoma – like family history, age over 40, diabetes, or high eye pressure, DO NOT wait. Get your eyes checked immediately.
Need expert glaucoma care? Or looking for an eye hospital in Chandigarh? Experienced ophthalmologists at Sohana Hospital offer the latest glaucoma diagnosis, treatment, and surgery. Book an appointment today and take the first step toward protecting your vision.
