Understanding glaucoma
Glaucoma damages the optic nerve, which carries visual information from the eye to the brain. It can develop without noticeable symptoms, and it can occur even when eye pressure is within the usual range. Vision already lost from glaucoma cannot be restored by current treatment.
Assessing your eyes
Assessment may include measuring eye pressure, examining the optic nerve and drainage angle, scanning the nerve fibres and testing peripheral vision. Repeat tests help identify changes over time and guide treatment.
Treatment tailored to your glaucoma
Treatment usually aims to lower eye pressure. The plan depends on the type of glaucoma, the amount of damage, any change over time and your circumstances.
Eye drops
Prescription drops may be used to lower pressure. Tell your treating clinician if you have side effects or difficulty using them.
Laser treatment
Laser may be suitable for some types of glaucoma. Selective laser trabeculoplasty, or SLT, is one option used to help lower pressure in appropriate patients.
Surgery
Options may include minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS), trabeculectomy or drainage implants. These procedures differ in their effects, risks and follow-up needs. MIGS may be combined with cataract surgery in selected patients; it is not suitable for every eye.
What treatment can and cannot do
Treatment aims to reduce the risk of further vision loss. Drops or additional procedures may still be needed after laser or surgery, and monitoring remains important. Each option has potential complications, which should be considered alongside the risks of insufficient pressure control.
Sudden symptoms need urgent attention
Sudden severe eye pain, redness and reduced vision, sometimes with headache, nausea or halos around lights, can indicate an emergency. Seek urgent assessment at an emergency department. Do not wait for a routine appointment.