Glaucoma
Glaucoma – Diagnosis & Treatment for Adults and Children
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that cause damage to the optic nerve the nerve responsible for carrying visual information from the eye to the brain. This damage is often linked to raised eye pressure, though glaucoma can also occur with normal pressure. It can affect both adults and children and, if left untreated, may lead to permanent vision loss. At Agashe Hospital, Mumbai, our glaucoma specialists provide comprehensive glaucoma diagnosis and personalized treatment for adults as well as children.
What Is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma develops when the fluid inside the eye does not drain properly, leading to increased pressure that gradually damages the optic nerve. In many adults, glaucoma progresses silently, without noticeable symptoms in the early stages. In children, however, glaucoma may present with visible signs and requires urgent attention. Early glaucoma diagnosis at Agashe Hospital plays a crucial role in preserving vision and preventing irreversible damage.
Types of Glaucoma in Adults and Children
In adults, common types include:
- Primary open-angle glaucoma: The most common form, progressing slowly and painlessly.
- Angle-closure glaucoma: A less common but emergency condition that may cause sudden eye pain, headache, and blurred vision.
In children, glaucoma may be:
- Congenital (present at birth)
- Infantile or juvenile glaucoma, developing later in childhood
- Childhood glaucoma often requires early surgical management and long-term follow-up by a pediatric glaucoma specialist.
Signs and Symptoms to Watch For
In Adults Glaucoma may not cause early symptoms. As the disease progresses, patients may notice:
- Gradual loss of side (peripheral) vision
- Difficulty seeing in low light
- Blurred vision or halos around lights
- Eye pain or redness in acute cases
In children, signs of childhood glaucoma can be more noticeable and may include:
- Excessive tearing or watery eyes
- Sensitivity to light
- Cloudy or enlarged eyes
- Frequent blinking or eye rubbing
Any of these signs should prompt immediate evaluation by a glaucoma specialist in Mumbai.
Causes and Risk Factors
Glaucoma occurs due to impaired drainage of eye fluid, leading to pressure build-up. Risk factors include:
- Family history of glaucoma
- Increasing age
- Long-term steroid use
- Eye injuries or previous eye surgery
- Certain systemic conditions
- In children, abnormal development of the eye’s drainage system
Identifying these risks early allows for timely glaucoma diagnosis and treatment.
Diagnosis of Glaucoma
A glaucoma diagnosis usually involves a detailed and comprehensive eye examination, which may include:
- Measurement of eye pressure (tonometry)
- Optic nerve evaluation
- Visual field testing
- Retinal and nerve fibre layer imaging
- Pediatric-specific examinations for children
Early diagnosis is essential, as vision loss from glaucoma cannot be reversed — only prevented from worsening.
Treatment Options for Glaucoma
Glaucoma treatment at Agashe hospital focuses on lowering eye pressure and protecting the optic nerve. Treatment plans are individualized and may include:
- Medicated eye drops: To reduce fluid production or improve drainage
- Oral medications: In selected cases
- Laser procedures: To enhance fluid outflow
- Surgical treatment: Required in advanced cases or most childhood glaucoma cases
Children with glaucoma often need surgery early, followed by long-term monitoring. Adult glaucoma treatment may involve a combination of medications, laser, or surgery, depending on severity.
Why Choose Agashe Hospital for Glaucoma Treatment?
Expert Glaucoma Specialists: Experienced in managing both adult and pediatric glaucoma
Advanced Diagnostics: Accurate assessment using modern imaging and testing tools
Personalized Care: Tailored treatment plans based on age, type, and severity
Continuity of Care: Long-term follow-up for chronic glaucoma management
FAQs
Glaucoma cannot be cured, but early diagnosis and proper treatment can effectively control the condition and prevent further vision loss.
No. While more common in adults, glaucoma can occur in infants and children and requires prompt treatment.
Most types of glaucoma are painless. Pain usually occurs only in acute angle-closure glaucoma.
Children with glaucoma often require long-term follow-up and ongoing management to protect vision.
Regular follow-up is essential and depends on disease severity. Your glaucoma specialist will guide the schedule.
