Glaucoma: what it is and why acting early matters

Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide, yet many people don’t notice it until vision is already lost. The disease slowly damages the optic nerve. Often there’s no pain and no early symptoms. That makes regular eye checks the single best way to catch it early and keep your sight.

How glaucoma is diagnosed

Eye doctors use a few simple tests to spot glaucoma before you notice problems. They’ll measure intraocular pressure (IOP) with a tonometer, check your optic nerve with a slit lamp or OCT scan, and map your peripheral vision with visual field testing. Sometimes the optic nerve looks damaged even if pressure is normal — that’s called normal-tension glaucoma. If you’re over 40, have a family history, are very nearsighted, or use steroids long-term, mention it — you may need more frequent checks.

Treatment options and daily tips

Treatment aims to slow or stop nerve damage by lowering eye pressure. Most people start with prescription eye drops. Common classes include prostaglandin analogs (once nightly), beta-blockers, alpha-agonists, and carbonic anhydrase inhibitors. Drops work well when used correctly. Simple technique tips: wash hands, tilt head back, pull down the lower lid, place one drop, close your eye for 1–2 minutes and press the corner of your eye near the nose to reduce absorption into your bloodstream.

If drops aren’t enough, doctors may recommend laser treatment like SLT to improve fluid outflow. Surgical options range from traditional trabeculectomy to newer minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries (MIGS). Each has pros and cons. Ask about recovery time, success rates, and how the procedure fits your lifestyle.

Some people take oral medication short-term (for example, before surgery). Watch for side effects from any treatment and report them. If you have trouble affording meds, ask your clinic about generics, patient assistance programs, or samples — many options exist.

Small daily actions help too. Keep blood pressure and blood sugar under control. Exercise regularly (but avoid heavy straining). Avoid smoking. If you use steroid eye drops or systemic steroids, discuss glaucoma risk with your doctor. And protect your eyes from injury — trauma can trigger glaucoma.

Know when to call: sudden eye pain, very blurred vision, nausea with eye redness, or sudden loss of vision require immediate care. For chronic glaucoma, follow-up exams usually include IOP checks, optic nerve photos or OCT, and periodic visual field tests — frequency depends on disease stage.

Finding out you have glaucoma can feel overwhelming. Ask your doctor to explain the stage, likely progression, and what to expect from each treatment. Getting a second opinion is fine. With early detection and steady care, most people keep useful vision for life.

Want more practical guides and drug info? Explore HeyDoctor.com for easy-to-follow articles on eye meds, surgery choices, and tips for taking your drops right.