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Evaluation and Diagnosis

Frequently Asked Questions

Is blindness caused by glaucoma preventable?

Regular diagnostic examinations by an ophthalmologist are important to preventing loss of vision. Ophthalmologists are medical doctors who specialize in eye care and trained to examine and treat eye diseases. Although there is no way to reverse damage, if glaucoma is diagnosed and treated early, blindness almost always is preventable.

What are the symptoms of glaucoma?

Glaucoma is called the silent thief of sight. In most cases, glaucoma has no symptoms. By the time an individual experiences decreased vision, the disease is frequently in its later stages. Since early warning signs of glaucoma are rare, it is important to have regular medical eye exams especially for those at risk.

Patients who may be at risk for glaucoma include:

• Those over 60 (in African-Americans, the risk is present at age 40 and older)
• A family history of glaucoma
• Race (African-Americans are significantly more likely to get glaucoma)
• Certain medical conditions (diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease)
• Physical injuries of the eye.

The symptoms depend on the type of glaucoma the individual has. Those who have chronic glaucoma may not be aware of any symptoms because the disease develops slowly and patients rarely notice loss of peripheral vision. Those who have an acute form of glaucoma may develop severe symptoms because ocular pressure rises quickly. They may experience blurred vision, especially at night, halos or rainbows around lights, severe headaches or eye pain and nausea.

Is glaucoma painful?

Generally, the answer is no. In some forms of glaucoma, the pressure may become extremely elevated (above 40 mm high). In such cases the patient may experience pain, blurry vision, halos, or nausea and vomiting

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