3. GLAUCOMA
Glaucoma is the leading causes of irreversible
blindness worldwide. In India alone, it affects
around 12 million people; India is projected to
become the world capital of glaucoma by 2020.
The sight loss caused by glaucoma is progressive
and, unlike cataract, is irreversible. Fortunately,
early diagnosis and treatment can prevent
blindness.
What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a disease of the nerve for vision
(optic nerve) caused by increased pressure in the
eye.
How does Glaucoma occur?
40% of your optic nerve can be damaged
before you notice any loss of vision
90% of Glaucoma
patients remain
undiagnosed in
India
In Open Angle Glaucoma,
Ocular Hypertension
There is a small space in the front of the eye
called the "anterior chamber“. Clear liquid flows
in-and-out of the anterior chamber; this fluid
nourishes and bathes nearby tissues. If a patient
has glaucoma, the fluid does not drain properly it drains too slowly - out of the eye. This leads to
fluid build-up, and pressure inside the eye rises.
Unless this pressure is brought down and
controlled, the optic nerve and other parts of the
eye may become damaged, leading to loss of
vision.
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