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Prevent vision loss from glaucoma

Manage your glaucoma with Dr Allan Fong, Senior Consultant Ophthalmologist

Understanding the causes and treatments
available for Glaucoma

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, which is essential for good vision. This damage is often caused by excessive pressure in the eye and can lead to vision loss if left untreated. Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness worldwide, but early detection and treatment can help protect your vision.

Symptoms of Glaucoma

Glaucoma is often referred to as the “silent thief of sight” because it can develop without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. However, as the disease progresses, symptoms may include:

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

Causes of Glaucoma

Glaucoma is primarily caused by elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), which can damage the optic nerve. This increased pressure can result from:

Blocked or malfunctioning drainage system

The eye’s drainage canals can become blocked or not function properly, leading to fluid buildup.

Genetics

A family history of glaucoma can increase your risk.

Age

The risk of developing glaucoma increases with age.

Medical Conditions

Conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and certain eye conditions can elevate the risk.

Eye Injuries

Previous eye injuries or surgeries can lead to secondary glaucoma.

Types of Glaucoma

Open-Angle Glaucoma

This is the most common form of glaucoma. It occurs when the eye’s drainage canals become clogged over time, leading to increased eye pressure. The “angle” in the eye where the iris meets the cornea remains open, but the trabecular meshwork becomes less efficient at draining fluid. Open-angle glaucoma develops slowly and often without symptoms until significant vision loss occurs.

Angle-Closure Glaucoma

Also known as closed-angle or narrow-angle glaucoma, this type occurs when the iris is too close to the drainage angle in the eye. The angle can become completely blocked, causing a sudden increase in eye pressure. This is a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment to prevent permanent vision loss. Symptoms may include severe eye pain, nausea, redness in the eye, and blurred vision.

Normal-tension Glaucoma

In normal-tension glaucoma, optic nerve damage occurs even though the eye pressure is within the normal range. The exact cause is not fully understood, but it may be related to a particularly sensitive optic nerve or reduced blood flow to the nerve.

Secondary Glaucoma

This type of glaucoma develops as a result of another eye condition, injury, or medical condition. It can occur due to inflammation, trauma, or the use of certain medications like steroids. The treatment focuses on managing the underlying cause and lowering eye pressure.

Congenital Glaucoma

This rare form of glaucoma is present at birth and is caused by abnormal development of the eye’s drainage canals. Symptoms in infants may include cloudy eyes, excessive tearing, and sensitivity to light. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent vision loss.

Glaucoma Screening and Detection

Early detection of glaucoma is vital to preserving vision. Regular eye examinations, especially for individuals at higher risk, can identify glaucoma in its early stages before significant damage is done. At Angel Eye & Cataract Centre, we offer comprehensive glaucoma screening that includes:

Intraocular Pressure (IOP) Measurement

Assessing the pressure inside the eye to detect abnormalities.

Optic Nerve Examination

Evaluating the optic nerve for signs of damage.

Visual Field Test

Measuring peripheral vision to detect any loss.

Gonioscopy

Examining the drainage angle of the eye to determine the type of glaucoma.

OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography)

Imaging the retina and optic nerve to assess the thickness of the nerve fibres and detect early signs of glaucoma.

Treatment Options for Glaucoma

Treatment for glaucoma focuses on lowering intraocular pressure to prevent further optic nerve damage. At Angel Eye & Cataract Centre, we offer a range of treatment options, including:

Medications

Prescription eye drops or oral medications can reduce eye pressure.

Laser Therapy

Procedures such as laser trabeculoplasty help improve the drainage of aqueous fluid from the eye.

Surgery

In cases where medications and laser therapy are not sufficient, surgical procedures like trabeculectomy or glaucoma drainage implants may be recommended.

Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS)

These procedures involve tiny incisions, leading to quicker recovery times and fewer complications compared to traditional glaucoma surgeries. MIGS is often recommended for patients with mild to moderate glaucoma.

Choosing the Right Glaucoma Treatment

Choosing the appropriate treatment for glaucoma depends on the type and severity of the disease, as well as your overall health and lifestyle.

What to expect during your consultation

At Angel Eye & Cataract Centre, our ophthalmologists and glaucoma surgeons will conduct a comprehensive eye examination:

1

Personalised Assessment

We evaluate your specific condition, including the type of glaucoma, the extent of optic nerve damage, and your eye pressure.

2

Tailored Treatment Plan

We provide customised treatment recommendations, whether it’s medication, laser therapy, or surgery.

3

Ongoing Monitoring

Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor your eye pressure and ensure the effectiveness of the treatment plan.

Meet Our Doctor

Dr Allan Fong

方齐扬医生

Senior Consultant Ophthalmologist

BBM, PBM, MBBS (S’pore), MMed (Ophth),
FRCS (Edinburgh), MRCOphth (London), FAMS

Medical Director
Senior Consultant Eye Surgeon
Visiting Consultant @ SNEC
Adjunct A/Professor, Duke-NUS

Dr Allan Fong is a distinguished ophthalmologist with experience in diagnosing and treating glaucoma. Before joining Angel Eye & Cataract Centre, Dr Fong served as the Head of Cataract & Comprehensive Ophthalmology Department at SNEC for 9 years.

As a surgeon and Senior Consultant at our centre, Dr Fong specialises in advanced glaucoma management and is dedicated to providing personalised care to each patient. He is committed to medical excellence and optimising patient outcomes.

Get in touch

Take Control of Your Eye Health

Don’t wait for glaucoma to affect your vision—early detection and treatment are crucial. At Angel Eye & Cataract Centre, we offer comprehensive glaucoma care tailored to your unique needs. Schedule a consultation or make an enquiry today!

For urgent enquiries and appointment requests, please call or WhatsApp us directly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Glaucoma

We understand you may have many questions about glaucoma. Here are answers to some of the most common queries about glaucoma symptoms, recovery, and expected outcomes.

Can glaucoma be prevented?

While glaucoma cannot be prevented, early detection and treatment can prevent vision loss. Regular eye exams are crucial, especially if you have risk factors.

Is there a cure for glaucoma?

There is no cure for glaucoma, but it can be managed with medications, laser treatments, and surgery to control eye pressure and prevent further vision loss.

How often should someone with a family history of glaucoma get their eyes checked?

Individuals with a family history of glaucoma should have comprehensive eye exams at least once a year. Early detection is crucial, as they are at higher risk of developing the condition.

Can glaucoma develop in one eye or both eyes?

Glaucoma can develop in one or both eyes. While it often affects both eyes, the severity can vary between them. Regular monitoring of both eyes is essential for effective management.

Is it safe to continue wearing contact lenses if I have glaucoma?

In most cases, you can continue wearing contact lenses if you have glaucoma. However, it is crucial to discuss this with your ophthalmologist, as certain medications or conditions may affect contact lens wear.

What is glaucoma and how does it affect your vision?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, leading to vision loss.

How can a glaucoma specialist help with early diagnosis and treatment?

A glaucoma specialist in Singapore can provide early detection and personalised glaucoma treatment to protect your vision.

What are the common symptoms of glaucoma to watch out for?

Common glaucoma symptoms include gradual loss of peripheral vision, eye pain and blurred vision.

How is glaucoma screening conducted and why is it important?

Glaucoma screening in Singapore includes tests like eye pressure checks and optic nerve evaluations to detect early damage.

What are the treatment options available for glaucoma?

Glaucoma treatment in Singapore includes medications, laser therapy, and surgery to lower eye pressure and prevent damage.

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