•         Due to a lack of knowledge about the illness, glaucoma, one of the main causes of vision loss and blindness, is seldom mentioned. To increase awareness of glaucoma, doctors from Mumbai come together to promote glaucoma screening tests.

Mumbai: Glaucoma is an eye condition that damages the optic nerve and results in blindness. Patches of vision, often peripheral vision, start to fade in glaucoma patients. As we enter this new year, January marks National Glaucoma Awareness Month. Early glaucoma detection is important because it allows for successful treatment and reversal.

Severe headaches, eye discomfort, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, eye redness, and sporadic blind patches in your peripheral or central vision are a few of the early signs of glaucoma.

Dr. Mehul Sanghavi, Ophthalmologist, Zynova Shalby Hospitals Said, “Glaucoma typically has no first symptoms. Because of this, only 50% of glaucoma sufferers are aware of their condition. You may gradually lose eyesight over time, generally beginning with your peripheral (side) vision, particularly the area of your vision that is closest to your nose. Many people are first unaware that their vision is altering since it happens so gradually. However, when the illness worsens, you can start to realise that your peripheral vision has diminished. Glaucoma can eventually result in blindness if it is not treated. Early detection & screening is most important. Siblings of patients who are having glaucoma, should undergo routine glaucoma check ups every 6 month after the age of 40yrs.”

Dr Nusrat Bukhari, Ophthalmologist, Apollo Spectra Mumbai Said, ‘‘ It’s important to increase public awareness of the glaucoma condition, which is a cause of irreversible blindness in children and adults that can cause the loss of up to 40% of vision without the sufferer even being aware of it. Only early detection through regular eye examinations or glaucoma tests can aid in preventing this fatal condition.