Glaucoma FAQs

Q: How can I tell if I have glaucoma? What are the warning signs and symptoms?

In most cases, there are no warning signs. In the later stages of the disease, some symptoms may occur. These can include:

loss of side vision (also called peripheral vision)
difficulty focusing on close work
seeing colored rings or halos around lights
headaches and eye pain
frequent changes of prescription glasses
difficulty adjusting eyes to the dark
The best way to find out if you have glaucoma is to get regular and complete eye exams.

Q: Who is at highest risk of developing glaucoma?

Glaucoma can affect all ages, young and old. It is the leading cause of blindness in African Americans. People at greater risk include those:

over the age of 60
who are African-American over age 40
with relatives who have glaucoma
who have diabetes
who are very nearsighted

Q: How often should my eyes be checked?

Regular and complete eye exams are important. In general, a check for glaucoma should be done:

at age 35 and at age 40
after age 40, every 2-3 years
after age 60, every 1-2 years
If you have any of the risk factors mentioned above, you should get your eyes thoroughly examined every 1-2 years after your 30th birthday.

Q: Are there different types of glaucoma?

Yes, there are several types of glaucoma. The most common is called primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). This type of glaucoma accounts for 90% of all cases. Other types include closed-angle glaucoma, congenital glaucoma and normal-tension glaucoma.

Q: Can glaucoma be prevented?

Currently, glaucoma cannot be prevented. Fortunately, with early detection and proper treatment, blindness from glaucoma can usually be prevented. Regular, complete eye exams help monitor changes in your eyesight.

Q: How is glaucoma treated?

Individual treatments will vary from person to person. Treatments include medications (eyedrops and/or pills), laser surgery, standard surgery and drainage implant devices.

Q: Can glaucoma be cured?

A cure for glaucoma is not yet known. The Glaucoma Research Foundation is helping researchers around the world find a cure. Along the way, the search for a cure has brought promising new treatment options that help slow or stop the disease from progressing.