Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, which is essential for good vision. This damage is often caused by elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), or pressure inside the eye. If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to permanent vision loss and even blindness.
Non-Contact Tonometry (NCT) is a method used to measure intraocular pressure (IOP) without touching the eye. This test is essential for screening and monitoring glaucoma, as high intraocular pressure can be a key risk factor for this condition. The NCT provides quick and painless results to help in early detection and management of glaucoma.
Medications (Eye Drops) :
Laser Therapy :
Surgery :
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that cause damage to the optic nerve, often due to increased eye pressure (intraocular pressure or IOP). It can lead to permanent vision loss if not detected and treated early.
The exact cause of glaucoma is not always clear, but it is often associated with elevated eye pressure due to improper drainage of fluid in the eye. Other factors include genetics, age, eye injuries, and certain medical conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure.
Open-angle glaucoma usually has no symptoms in the early stages and progresses slowly, affecting peripheral vision first. Angle-closure glaucoma can cause sudden symptoms like severe eye pain, headache, nausea, blurred vision, and halos around lights. This type requires immediate medical attention.
Risk factors include being over 60 years old, having a family history of glaucoma, African, Asian, or Hispanic descent, high eye pressure, and certain medical conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or prolonged use of steroid medications.
Diagnosis involves a comprehensive eye exam that includes measuring eye pressure (tonometry), examining the optic nerve for signs of damage, testing visual fields, and using imaging techniques like Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) to evaluate the optic nerve and retina.
There is no cure for glaucoma, but it can be managed effectively to slow or prevent further vision loss. Treatments aim to reduce eye pressure and may include eye drops, laser therapy, or surgery.
