Overview
About Glaucoma Management
Vision lost to glaucoma cannot currently be restored, but timely treatment can significantly slow or halt further damage in most patients.
The most common form, primary open-angle glaucoma, progresses gradually and painlessly. Angle-closure glaucoma can occur suddenly and requires urgent care.
Management is long-term and tailored to your risk level, combining pressure-lowering treatment with regular structural and functional testing.
Reasons to consult
Common symptoms & reasons for a visit
- Family history of glaucoma
- Raised eye pressure found at a routine eye test
- Optic nerve changes noted by an optometrist
- Gradual loss of peripheral vision
- Sudden eye pain, redness, headache and blurred vision (seek urgent care)
Diagnosis
How the condition is evaluated
- 01
Tonometry
Measures intraocular pressure.
- 02
Gonioscopy
Examines the drainage angle of the eye.
- 03
Visual field testing
Maps peripheral vision to detect functional loss.
- 04
OCT of the optic nerve
Measures nerve fibre layer thickness to track structural change.
Treatment
Available treatment approaches
Eye drops
Daily medication to lower eye pressure, adjusted according to response and tolerance.
Laser treatment
Options such as selective laser trabeculoplasty or laser iridotomy, depending on glaucoma type.
Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery
Small-incision procedures that may be combined with cataract surgery.
Filtration surgery
Procedures such as trabeculectomy or drainage devices for advanced or progressive disease.
The right approach depends on an individual examination. This page does not provide a diagnosis or guarantee any outcome.
Your visit
What patients can generally expect
- Glaucoma care is a long-term partnership with regular reviews.
- Using drops consistently and as prescribed is one of the most important parts of treatment.
- Your specialist will explain your individual risk and the reasoning behind each treatment decision.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
There is currently no cure, and lost vision cannot be restored. Treatment aims to protect the remaining vision by lowering eye pressure and monitoring for progression.
Specialists
Related specialists
SampleMBBS · FRCOphth (sample credential) · Glaucoma Fellowship
Glaucoma
Dr. Daniel Okafor
Consultant Ophthalmologist
MBBS, FRCOphth (sample credential), Glaucoma Fellowship
12+ yrs experience
View profile
Medical review notice: This page contains general, informational content for a demonstration website. It must be reviewed and approved by qualified ophthalmologists before real-world publication.
