Glaucoma, commonly known as Kala Motia or Kala Motiyabind, is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide. It occurs when the optic nerve, which transmits visual signals to the brain, becomes damaged—most often due to increased intraocular pressure (IOP) inside the eye.
Since glaucoma usually develops silently and shows no early symptoms, many patients do not realize they have it until vision loss has already occurred. Regular eye check-ups, especially after the age of 40, are crucial for early detection and treatment.
What is Glaucoma (Kala Motiyabind)?
Glaucoma or kala motiyabind is a progressive eye disease that damages the optic nerve, often due to high eye pressure. If left untreated, it can lead to partial or complete blindness. Unlike cataract (Safed Motia), vision loss from glaucoma is permanent.
Early diagnosis and timely treatment of Glaucoma can help manage the disease and preserve eyesight.
Types of Glaucoma
Different forms of glaucoma affect patients differently:
- Open-Angle Glaucoma (Chronic)
The most common type. It progresses slowly and painlessly, often without noticeable symptoms until advanced stages. - Angle-Closure Glaucoma (Acute)
Occurs suddenly with severe eye pain, blurred vision, headaches, and nausea. It is a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment. - Normal-Tension Glaucoma
Even with normal eye pressure, optic nerve damage occurs, possibly due to poor blood flow. - Pigmentary Glaucoma
Pigment granules from the iris block fluid drainage, raising eye pressure. Common in younger adults. - Congenital (Childhood) Glaucoma
Present at birth or early childhood. Symptoms include large hazy eyes, excessive tearing, and light sensitivity.
Symptoms of Glaucoma
Glaucoma is often symptomless in early stages. However, depending on the type, signs may include:
- Gradual loss of peripheral (side) vision
- Halos around lights
- Eye pain or pressure
- Headaches and blurred vision
- Sudden vision loss (in acute cases)
If you notice any of these symptoms, consult an eye specialist immediately.
Risk Factors for Glaucoma
Anyone can develop glaucoma, but some people are at higher risk:
- Age over 40–50 years
- Family history of glaucoma
- High intraocular pressure
- Conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease
- Severe myopia (nearsightedness) or hyperopia (farsightedness)
- Long-term use of steroids
- Previous eye injury or surgery
Causes of Glaucoma
The eye produces a fluid called aqueous humour that drains out through tiny channels. If this drainage is blocked or slows down, fluid builds up, increasing eye pressure. This pressure gradually damages the optic nerve, leading to glaucoma.
Causes may include:
- Blocked or narrowed drainage pathways
- Eye trauma
- Certain medications (like steroids)
- Poor blood flow to the optic nerve
Glaucoma in Children
Though rare, glaucoma can also affect children. Congenital glaucoma often appears within the first year of life, while secondary childhood glaucoma may result from eye injuries or other conditions.
Common signs in children:
- Enlarged, cloudy eyes
- Light sensitivity
- Excessive tearing
Early detection and surgical treatment are often required to prevent permanent vision loss in children.
Diagnosis of Glaucoma
Since early glaucoma rarely shows symptoms, regular eye check-ups are the best way to detect it. An ophthalmologist may perform:
- Tonometry – measures eye pressure
- Perimetry – tests peripheral vision
- Pachymetry – measures corneal thickness
- Gonioscopy – examines the drainage angle
- Fundoscopy & Imaging – checks the optic nerve for damage
Stages of Glaucoma
Glaucoma progresses gradually if untreated:
- Early Stage – Optic nerve damage begins, no visible symptoms
- Moderate Stage – Loss of peripheral vision becomes noticeable
- Advanced Stage – Severe nerve damage, central vision affected
- End Stage – Near-total blindness
Treatment for Glaucoma (Kala Motia ka Ilaj)
Although glaucoma cannot be cured, timely treatment can control eye pressure and slow progression.
1. Medications
Eye drops or oral medicines reduce eye pressure by either lowering fluid production or improving drainage. Common drugs include beta-blockers, prostaglandin analogs, and carbonic anhydrase inhibitors.
2. Laser Therapy
Laser procedures like Trabeculoplasty or Cyclophotocoagulation help improve fluid outflow. They are useful for patients who cannot tolerate eye drops or need additional pressure control.
3. Surgery
If medicines and lasers fail, surgery may be recommended. Trabeculectomy and glaucoma drainage implants create new pathways for fluid drainage, lowering eye pressure.
Key Takeaway
Glaucoma (Kala Motia) is a silent but dangerous disease that can cause permanent blindness if ignored. The best defense is early detection through regular eye exams and timely treatment. If you are over 40, have diabetes, or a family history of glaucoma, make eye check-ups a priority.
👁 Protect your vision—don’t wait for symptoms. Book a consultation with an eye specialist if you are at risk.