Frequently Asked Questions About Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a condition that causes severe damage to the optic nerve. Although it can happen to anyone regardless of their age, Glaucoma is commonly seen in older adults. There are several questions that arise in the mind of a patient having Glaucoma. This blog will focus on the frequently asked questions about Glaucoma and its answers. But before looking through the glaucoma faqs, it is important to be aware of Glaucoma and its screening.   
 

10  Frequently Asked Questions About Glaucoma
 

1. What are the types of Glaucoma

The different types of Glaucoma are,

• Open-angle Glaucoma
• Angle-closure Glaucoma
• Normal-tension Glaucoma
• Congenital Glaucoma
• Neovascular Glaucoma
• Pigmentary Glaucoma
• Exfoliation glaucoma
• Uveitic Glaucoma
   

2. Can I become blind if I have Glaucoma?

Unfortunately, yes, if you leave Glaucoma untreated, then it can cause blindness. However, the good news is that it can be prevented when diagnosed and treated in its early stage.
 

3. What are the symptoms of Glaucoma?

In its early stages, there are no warning symptoms. This is because the vision changes in Glaucoma progress slowly. However, it is essential to show it to a doctor upon noticing the following symptoms,

• Red eyes
• Nausea and vomiting
• Severe pain in the eyes
• Blurred vision
• Blind spots
• Headaches
   

4. What are the risk factors that put me at risk of Glaucoma?

The various risk factors that may increase your risk of developing Glaucoma include the following,

• Having a family history of Glaucoma
• Having hypertension
• Any injury to the eye in the past
• A past eye surgery
• Long-term use of certain medications like corticosteroids
• Having diabetes
• Having heart problems
   

5. How is Glaucoma treated?

Once diagnosed, your doctor may treat Glaucoma using the following treatment methods, 

• Eye drops
• Medications like beta blockers
• Laser therapy
• A surgery
   

6. Is it possible to restore lost vision due to Glaucoma?

It is one of the top searched glaucoma faqs. Unfortunately, it is not possible to restore vision once it is lost due to Glaucoma, even after surgery. 
 

7. Can Glaucoma affect children?

Yes, Glaucoma can affect children as well. Hence, it is important to get regular eye checkups done for children. Inform your doctor immediately if you notice any of the following symptoms of Glaucoma in children,

• Light sensitivity
• Tearing up a lot
• One of the eyes appears bigger than the other
• Loss of vision
• An enlarged or cloudy-looking cornea
   

8. Is glaucoma curable? 

Unfortunately, Glaucoma is not curable. However, Glaucoma and its symptoms can be managed with effective treatment. 
 

9. Is there any way to prevent Glaucoma?

No, Glaucoma cannot be prevented. However, with regular eye checkups, it can be diagnosed early. Early diagnosis of Glaucoma is essential as it helps in preventing the disease from worsening. 
 
 

10. What are the side effects that are to be expected with glaucoma treatment using eye drops?

Eye drops given for treating Glaucoma can cause the following side effects,

• Redness
• Allergy
• Eye irritation
• Burning and stinging
• Blurred vision