Frequently Asked Questions About Glaucoma

Q: What is glaucoma?

Glaucoma refers to a group of eye diseases that have certain common features. These can include an eye pressure too high for the health of the eye, damage to the optic nerve and visual field (sight) loss.

Q: How many people have glaucoma?

It is estimated that 3 million Americans have glaucoma, and 67 million people worldwide will have glaucoma by the year 2000. At least half do not know they have it because glaucoma usually has no symptoms (that's why they call it the "sneak thief of sight"). Untreated, glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness.

Q: How can I tell if I have glaucoma? What are the 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: 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: 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.  

http://www.glaucoma.org

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