Eye health
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, often because of high pressure inside the eye. It is a leading cause of permanent vision loss, and most people have no symptoms until vision is lost, so regular eye exams matter.
What is glaucoma?
The optic nerve carries images from the eye to the brain. In glaucoma, this nerve is slowly damaged. The most common type, open-angle glaucoma, develops gradually and painlessly and first affects side (peripheral) vision. Lost vision cannot be restored, but treatment can slow or stop further loss.
Symptoms
Open-angle glaucoma usually has no early symptoms. Over time, side vision narrows.
When to get help right away: a less common type, acute angle-closure glaucoma, is an emergency. Sudden severe eye pain, headache, nausea or vomiting, blurred vision and a red eye need care at the nearest emergency room right away.
Risk factors
- Age over 60
- A family history of glaucoma
- High eye pressure
- Black, Hispanic or Asian ancestry
- Diabetes
- High nearsightedness
- Long-term steroid use
- A past eye injury
Testing and diagnosis
- Eye pressure measurement
- A detailed look at the optic nerve during a dilated exam
- Visual field (side vision) testing
- Imaging of the optic nerve when needed
How we help
- Glaucoma screening as part of comprehensive eye exams
- Ongoing monitoring of eye pressure and the optic nerve
- Treatment with pressure-lowering eye drops when appropriate
- Referral to a glaucoma specialist for laser treatment or surgery when needed
FAQ
Common questions
Can glaucoma be cured?
There is no cure, but treatment can lower eye pressure and slow or stop further vision loss. Using your drops as prescribed and keeping follow-up visits is key.
How often should I be checked?
Adults should have regular comprehensive eye exams. If you have risk factors or are a glaucoma suspect, your doctor will recommend a schedule, often every 6 to 12 months.
Is a normal eye pressure enough to rule out glaucoma?
No. Some people develop glaucoma with normal eye pressure, which is why the optic nerve and side vision are also checked.
Related topics
Keep learning
This information is for general education and does not replace a visit with your doctor.
Book a glaucoma check
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