Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, which carries signals from the eye to the brain. It is often, but not always, linked to raised pressure inside the eye. Most glaucoma develops slowly and causes no pain or early symptoms. Side (peripheral) vision is lost first, so many people do not notice a problem until significant damage has occurred. Vision lost to glaucoma cannot be restored, which is why regular eye check-ups matter, especially after 40 or if glaucoma runs in the family. A less common form, acute angle-closure glaucoma, happens when eye pressure rises suddenly. It causes a painful red eye, blurred vision, halos around lights, headache, nausea and vomiting, and is an emergency. Treatment with eye drops, laser or surgery lowers eye pressure and helps protect the remaining vision.
Symptoms of Glaucoma
- Gradual vision loss
- Halos around lights
- Eye pain
- Nausea
Causes and risk factors of Glaucoma
- Raised pressure inside the eye
- Age over 40
- Family history of glaucoma
- Diabetes, high blood pressure and high short-sightedness (myopia)
- Long-term use of steroid medicines, including steroid eye drops
- Previous eye injury or inflammation
How Glaucoma is diagnosed
- Tonometry to measure eye pressure
- Dilated examination of the optic nerve
- Visual field test (perimetry)
- Gonioscopy to check the eye's drainage angle
- OCT scan of the optic nerve and retina
When to see a doctor for Glaucoma
For severe, sudden or rapidly worsening symptoms, do not wait for an appointment callback. Seek emergency care. For a routine concern, our care team can help you choose the appropriate specialist. This page cannot diagnose your symptoms.
Treatment for Glaucoma at Iswarya Hospital
Iswarya Hospital's Ophthalmology department provides comprehensive eye care services including cataract surgery using phacoemulsification (micro-incision technique), LASIK laser vision correction, glaucoma management, diabetic retinopathy screening and treatment, retinal detachment surgery, squint correction, and paediatric eye care. Our ophthalmologists use advanced diagnostic equipment including OCT, fundus photography, and corneal topography.
Ophthalmology specialists for Glaucoma
MBBS, MS (Ophthalmology), Fellowship (Cornea & Refractive Surgery)
9+ Years Experience
Glaucoma FAQs
Can glaucoma cause blindness?
If untreated, glaucoma can lead to permanent vision loss. Early detection and regular treatment greatly reduce the risk of serious sight loss.
My eye pressure is normal. Can I still have glaucoma?
Yes. Some people develop optic nerve damage with normal pressure readings (normal-tension glaucoma). That is why a full eye check includes examining the optic nerve and, if needed, a visual field test.
Do glaucoma eye drops have to be used for life?
Usually yes, because the drops control pressure but do not cure the disease. Use them every day as prescribed and do not stop without speaking to your eye doctor, even if your vision seems fine.
When is glaucoma an emergency?
See an eye specialist immediately if you have sudden severe eye pain, a red eye, blurred vision with halos around lights, headache and vomiting. This may be acute angle-closure glaucoma, which can damage sight quickly.
ℹ️ This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.
Plan your first visit
Not sure which specialist to see? Tell our care team the reason for your visit and we will help you choose.
- Bring previous prescriptions, relevant test reports or scan images, a medication list and photo ID.
- If you plan to use insurance, bring your policy details. OPD, tests and admission benefits depend on your individual plan and approval.
- Your first consultation determines which tests or treatments are needed; not everyone needs every test listed on this page.
Appointments are requests until confirmed. In a medical emergency, call 044 2025 2025 or go to the nearest emergency department.