Glaucoma is often referred to as the “silent thief of sight.” Not just a single eye disease but a group of eye disorders, glaucoma sneaks up on you and can rob you of sight without ever knowing that it was happening. Glaucoma is typically associated with increased pressure in the eye, but things are a little more complicated than that. It can be different types of Glaucoma each with different symptoms, causes, and treatment options. It is imperative to understand glaucoma to detect this disorder as soon as possible and prevent irreversible vision loss.
In this blog, we are going to explore a variety of different types of glaucoma, from the most common types of glaucoma to the rare types of glaucoma. Let’s work together to help you see clearly (literally and figuratively) about how to protect your eyes and vision from glaucoma.
What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damages the optic nerve, commonly caused by increased pressure inside the eye (intraocular pressure). Damage to the optic nerve causes a gradual loss of peripheral vision and possibly blindness if left untreated. Glaucoma usually develops slowly and painlessly thus making it undetectable at the start of the disease.The common types of glaucoma include open-angle, angle-closure Congenital and secondary glaucoma.
Some risk factors are aging, family history of glaucoma, high intraocular pressure, and certain medical conditions (such as diabetes). There is no cure for glaucoma but there are treatments including eye drops, medications, or surgery that can slow down progression and maintain the vision you have left, as long as it is found and diagnosed early enough.
Types of Glaucoma
Open-Angle Glaucoma
Open-angle glaucoma is the most common type. It occurs when the eye’s drainage canals become slowly clogged, raising eye pressure over time. The drainage angle stays open, but fluid drains too slowly. It develops slowly and painlessly, often with no symptoms until vision loss is advanced. Regular eye exams are key. Treatment includes eye drops, medications, laser therapy, or surgery to reduce pressure and prevent vision loss.
Angle-Closure Glaucoma
Angle-closure glaucoma happens when the drainage angle suddenly becomes blocked, causing a rapid rise in eye pressure. It is a medical emergency and may cause severe eye pain, headache, blurred vision, nausea, and halos. Without quick treatment, it can lead to permanent vision loss. Though rare, it is more dangerous than open-angle glaucoma. Treatment involves medications and laser or surgical procedures to relieve pressure.
Congenital Glaucoma
Congenital glaucoma is a rare condition present at birth due to abnormal eye drainage system development. It raises eye pressure, risking optic nerve damage. Symptoms include tearing, light sensitivity, enlarged or cloudy eyes. Early surgical treatment is critical to preserve vision. Ongoing monitoring is necessary as the child grows.
Secondary Glaucoma
Secondary glaucoma results from an underlying eye condition or injury, such as trauma, inflammation, tumors, or steroid use. It differs from primary glaucoma by having a known cause. Symptoms vary depending on the cause. Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying condition and lowering eye pressure through medications, lasers, or surgery.
Types of Glaucoma in Ayurveda
Vataja Glaucoma
Caused by Vata dosha imbalance, leading to dryness, stiffness, and blurry vision. Poor fluid circulation and nerve dysfunction gradually impair vision. Treatment includes nourishing oils, massages like Shirodhara, Vata-pacifying herbs, and lifestyle changes.
Pittaja Glaucoma
Due to aggravated Pitta dosha, it causes inflammation, redness, burning, and light sensitivity. Heat buildup damages eye tissues and raises pressure. Treatments involve cooling herbs, diet changes, and therapies like Netra Tarpana to reduce inflammation and restore vision.
Kaphaja Glaucoma
Triggered by excess Kapha dosha, symptoms include heavy, watery eyes, mucus discharge, and cloudy vision. Fluid stagnation raises eye pressure. Treatment focuses on detox, warming therapies, Kapha-reducing herbs, and improved circulation.
Raktaja Glaucoma
Caused by vitiated blood (Rakta), often due to trauma, infection, or inflammation. It leads to redness, pain, and rapid vision decline. Ayurvedic care includes blood-purifying herbs, Panchakarma, and therapies to reduce inflammation and improve eye health.
How can Glaucoma be Prevented?
- Early detection is key to preventing glaucoma and maintaining healthy eye pressure.
- Regular comprehensive eye exams are the most effective way to detect glaucoma early.
- Eye exams are especially important for:
- People over 40 years old
- Those with risk factors such as a family history of glaucoma, diabetes, or high blood pressure
- Preventive action should be taken before any visual symptoms appear.
- Protective measures include:
- Reducing the risk of eye injury
- Maintaining good control of chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension
- Avoiding excessive use of steroids
- Following your doctor’s advice, especially when prescribed anti-glaucoma medications, can help prevent vision loss.
- Awareness, early investigation, and proper management are essential to avoid the silent and irreversible damage caused by glaucoma.
How is Glaucoma Managed with Ayurveda?
- Ayurveda prevents glaucoma by restoring balance among the three doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.
- Balancing doshas can help reduce intraocular pressure and minimize optic nerve damage and vision loss.
- Herbal formulations like Triphala, Ashwagandha, and Shatavari have anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects on the eyes.
- Therapies used in Ayurveda to nourish the eyes and improve circulation include:
- Integrating Ayurveda may help preserve vision and enhance overall quality of life.
- Netra Tarpana – medicated oil baths for the eyes
- Shirodhara – pouring medicated oil on the forehead
- Nasya – administering medicated oils through the nasal passages
- Diet and lifestyle changes are important to maintain dosha balance and support eye health.
- Early identification of glaucoma and getting Ayurvedic treatment for Glaucoma can improve the condition.
Get Treatment for Different Types of Glaucoma at Prakash Nethralaya
Visit Prakash Nethralaya for expert Ayurvedic treatment of all eye conditions, including glaucoma. Led by Dr. Dinesh Sharma, a highly experienced Ayurvedic doctor in Jaipur, the clinic offers thorough eye exams, early diagnosis, and personalized treatment plans. With a skilled and compassionate team, modern facilities, and a patient-first approach, Prakash Nethralaya ensures quality care—from routine checkups to advanced procedures.Book your appointment today for trusted eye care.
Conclusion
Glaucoma is a serious eye disease that requires early detection and treatment to prevent permanent vision loss. Understanding its types, risks, and symptoms is crucial for timely care. Both modern medicine and Ayurveda can help manage eye pressure and protect the optic nerve. Quality care centers like Prakash Nethralaya provide effective diagnosis and treatment. Regular eye exams, a healthy lifestyle, and following prescribed therapies are key to preserving vision and improving quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Symptoms of Glaucoma?
Often a person may not notice early onset of glaucoma because it is not obvious. Later signs of glaucoma may include reduced peripheral vision, blurred vision, pain and redness in the eye (eyes), and noticing halos around various sources of light.
What are the 4 Types of Glaucoma?
The four main types are open-angle, angle-closure, congenital, and secondary glaucoma, each with different causes and treatment needs.
What are the Different Types of Glaucoma as per Ayurveda?
Yes, Ayurveda classifies glaucoma into Vataja, Pittaja, Kaphaja, and Raktaja types, based on dosha imbalances affecting the eyes differently
Are there Different Ayurvedic Treatments for Glaucoma?
Yes, Ayurveda uses herbs like Triphala and therapies like Netra Tarpana to balance doshas, reduce eye pressure, and support eye health naturally.
Is Glaucoma Hereditary?
Glaucoma can run in families, and therefore those with a family history should receive routine eye check-ups.
Can Glaucoma Cause Blindness?
Untreated glaucoma will lead to irreversible blindness as it damages the optic nerve.
What Lifestyle Changes Help Manage Glaucoma?
Many lifestyle changes can also preserve eye health and lead to a reduced risk of glaucoma, including eating healthy whole foods, consistent regular exercise, and avoiding smoking, and getting proper eye protection from injury.
