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Experiencing right eye pain and headache can be unsettling, especially when the discomfort becomes frequent or severe. While occasional eye strain or sinus pressure may cause temporary symptoms, persistent pain might indicate an underlying eye condition—one of the most serious being glaucoma.

In this blog, we will explore the possible causes of right eye pain and headache, how glaucoma plays a role, and what you need to know about glaucoma eye surgery in Nigeria—including treatment options, success rates, and leading eye care centers.

Understanding Right Eye Pain and Headache

Pain around or behind the right eye combined with a headache can result from various causes. These include:

1. Eye Strain

• Caused by prolonged screen use, poor lighting, or incorrect vision prescriptions.
• Symptoms: Dull ache in the right eye, mild headache, blurred vision.

2. Sinus Infection (Sinusitis)

• Inflamed sinus cavities can cause pressure behind one eye.
• Often worsens with bending over or cold weather.

3. Migraine

• Migraines frequently cause sharp or throbbing pain behind one eye.
• May be accompanied by nausea, sensitivity to light, and visual aura.

4. Trigeminal Neuralgia

• A nerve disorder that can cause sudden, severe facial pain, including near the right eye.

5. Glaucoma

• One of the most serious causes of right eye pain and headache.
• Often caused by a sudden increase in intraocular pressure.
• Can lead to vision loss if left untreated.

Could It Be Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” because it can develop without obvious symptoms until vision is affected. However, acute angle-closure glaucoma is an exception—this form of glaucoma presents with sudden and intense symptoms such as:

• Severe right eye pain and headache
• Blurred vision or halos around lights
• Eye redness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Increased pressure inside the eye

This is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention to prevent permanent vision loss.

Diagnosing Glaucoma in Nigeria

Diagnosis involves:

• Tonometry (measuring intraocular pressure)
• Ophthalmoscopy (examining the optic nerve)
• Visual field test
• Gonioscopy (to view the drainage angle)

If glaucoma is detected, your ophthalmologist will recommend treatment options based on the severity and type of glaucoma.

Treatment Options: From Eye Drops to Surgery

Mild glaucoma can often be managed with:

• Prescription eye drops
• Oral medications
• Laser treatments (like selective laser trabeculoplasty)

However, in more advanced or aggressive cases, glaucoma eye surgery becomes necessary.

Glaucoma Eye Surgery in Nigeria

Glaucoma eye surgery is aimed at lowering intraocular pressure (IOP) to prevent further damage to the optic nerve. There are several types of surgery available in Nigeria today:

1. Trabeculectomy

• The most common surgical treatment for glaucoma.
• Involves creating a new drainage path to reduce eye pressure.
• Available in major Nigerian hospitals and eye clinics.

2. Glaucoma Drainage Implants

• Small devices implanted to help drain excess fluid.
• Recommended for patients who don’t respond to trabeculectomy.

3. Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS)

• Less invasive procedures with faster recovery.
• Gaining popularity in advanced eye care centers in Nigeria.

4. Laser Surgery (Iridotomy or Cyclophotocoagulation)

• Often used for angle-closure glaucoma.
• Quick and typically outpatient-based.

Where to Get Glaucoma Eye Surgery in Nigeria

Nigeria has made significant strides in eye care. Here are some top centers known for quality glaucoma eye surgery in Nigeria:

???? Eye Foundation Hospital – Lagos, Abuja

• Known for advanced diagnostics and surgery.
• Offers MIGS and traditional glaucoma procedures.

???? MeCure Eye Center – Lagos

• Equipped with modern glaucoma management tools.
• Experienced ophthalmologists and laser treatments.

???? National Eye Centre – Kaduna

• Public sector hospital with affordable eye care options.
• Well-trained specialists in glaucoma treatment.

???? Kelina Eye Centre – Abuja, Lagos

• Offers minimally invasive options and implant technology.

What to Expect After Glaucoma Surgery

Recovery time can vary depending on the procedure. Generally, patients should:

• Use prescribed eye drops regularly
• Avoid strenuous activity
• Attend all follow-up appointments
• Wear protective eyewear as recommended

Most patients experience significant reduction in eye pressure after surgery. While vision loss cannot be reversed, surgery helps preserve the remaining vision and prevent further damage.

Cost of Glaucoma Eye Surgery in Nigeria

The cost of glaucoma eye surgery in Nigeria varies by location, hospital, and procedure type. On average:

• Trabeculectomy: ₦150,000 – ₦350,000
• Laser Surgery: ₦100,000 – ₦250,000
• Drainage Implants: ₦250,000 – ₦500,000+

Many hospitals offer payment plans, and some NGOs provide support for underprivileged patients needing urgent eye care.

Prevention & Early Detection

The best way to prevent vision loss from glaucoma is early detection. Here's how:

• Regular eye exams (especially after age 40)
• Manage risk factors like high blood pressure or diabetes
• Family history awareness—glaucoma can be genetic
• Avoid self-medication or overuse of steroid eye drops

If you're experiencing right eye pain and headache, especially with visual changes, see an ophthalmologist immediately.

Final Thoughts

Right eye pain and headache may seem like common symptoms, but they can signal a more serious condition like glaucoma. The good news is that with early diagnosis and timely treatment, especially through glaucoma eye surgery in Nigeria, patients can retain their sight and live healthy, active lives.

Don’t ignore eye pain. Consult a qualified eye care provider or specialist. Whether you're in Lagos, Abuja, Kaduna, or anywhere across the country, world-class treatment is available.