What is glaucoma? Glaucoma and is a condition in which the pressure inside the eye is too high for the eye to maintain its normal health.
Which people are affected by glaucoma? People of any age can be affected by glaucoma, but it is more often say in people of the edge of 40.
Is there only one type of glaucoma? No. There are many types of glaucoma. The commonest type used called open angle glaucoma.?
How will I know if I have glaucoma? Glaucoma is usually painless and most people with the condition are unaware that it is developing until it is diagnosed by a doctor or optometrist?
Does glaucoma cause pain? Usually there is no pain associated with glaucoma. In the less common condition of acute angle-closure glaucoma, sudden and severe eye pain can develop.
How is glaucoma usually treated? Open-angle glaucoma is usually treated with eye drops. Patients usually use of the drops once or twice a day to both eyes.
What if drops do not work? Some patients can also be helped with laser treatments and operations.
Can glaucoma cause blindness? Yes. Glaucoma is a major cause of visual loss in developed countries. Fortunately if it is diagnosed and treated blindness is rare.

Do most people with glaucoma realize they have the condition? Unfortunately a large proportion of patients with glaucoma are unaware that they are suffering from glaucoma.
Does glaucoma run in families? It is now known that some families have a genetic tendency towards developing glaucoma. Individuals who have family members suffering from glaucoma should have their eyes tested regularly.
How often should I have my eyes checked for glaucoma? After rage 40 the eyes should be checked for glaucoma every two years.
How does glaucoma damage the eyes? The nerve fibres that run between the eye and optic nerve gradually breakdown. The side vision is initially damaged, and eventually only a small area of central vision may remain. In extreme cases this to can disappear.
Can the damage be reversed? Unfortunately the damage caused by glaucoma is almost always permanent. Hence, early detection and treatment is vital.
Where can I get more information about glaucoma? We invite you to email us with any questions that you have about glaucoma. You may find the following links useful: