12 th March 2010

Blindness Impact INDIA Second largest cause of

preventable blindness

Largest cause of

irreversible blindness

By 2010 – 1 CRORE

By 2020 – 2 CRORE

Almost 90% undiagnosed

WHAT IS GLAUCOMA ?

Permanent damage to Optic nerve Most commonly due to raised intra-

ocular pressure Many other risk factors – hereditary,

genetics, steroids use, high power glasses, etc

Leads to slowly progressive loss of vision Vision once lost cannot be recovered

ARE THERE ANY SYMPTOMS

ASYMPTOMATIC Blurred vision Colored halos Partial/peripheral loss Red eyes Nausea and/or vomiting Severe pain in eyes Constant headache

IS GLAUCOMA CURABLE?

DO I HAVE GLAUCOMA?

Regular eye checkup if: You are more than 40yrs You have diabetes, hypertension or heart

disease, etc Any family member is having glaucoma

Examination includes: Vision, I.O.P. and Fundoscopy (on every visit) Visual Fields (as per doctor’s advice)

HOW TO TREAT GLAUCOMA

MEDICAL Eye drops Tablets

LASER SURGERY

IS FOLLOW-UP REQUIRED

YES Regular follow-up as per requirement

Once started, medications have to be

taken life-long

Never stop/change any medication

without consulting a eye specialist

HOW TO CARE FOR MY EYES?

Find ways to keep stress levels low. Do regular exercise. Do Limited use of tea/coffee Eat good amount of fruits/vegetables. Protect your eyes while at work or play Keep diabetes, B.P., cholesterol, etc under

control Don’t forget to visit your Ophthalmologist.

Without your help, Doctor cannot treat you.