Glaucoma is second only to cataract as the leading cause of blindness in people over forty. But though awareness about cataract exists to some degree, most people know little or nothing about glaucoma. And that's real tragedy. Because knowledge about glaucoma can help you prevent it from darkening your life. Read about glaucoma and understand how the power to protect your vision lies in the hand of one person -YOU.

How do I know I have glaucoma ... ?

Glaucoma is a "silent" disease. It comes painlessly and gives no clue to the patient of its presence. The patient slowly and gradually begins to loose side or peripheral vision. The loss is so gradual that one would not notice it. The only sure way of diagnosing glaucoma is to have your eye examined for glaucoma by an eye doctor.

What is "pressure of the eye" and what are its normal values ... ?

The "Normal" eye pressure is generally accepted to be less than the 20 to 24 mm Hg range ( based on the method of measurement). Most people would have their eye pressure in the "teens". A glaucoma patient would need to maintain a lower pressure to safeguard his vision.

When should I opt for surgery ... ?

The decision to operate upon an eye with glaucoma is essentially your eye doctor's decision. He would suggest surgery if the medications are not working satisfactorily, or if a cataract is adding to vision problems.

Can I get back my vision after surgery ... ?

The vision lost due to glaucoma cannot be restored. Glaucoma medicines and surgery can help save existing vision and prevent further loss.

How do I know if my glaucoma medication is working ... ?

Your doctor has many tests to determine the success of your antiglaucoma treatment. Measurement of eye pressure at periodic intervals is one of them. Examining the optic nerve head and recording the field of vision are the other two important tests that will tell your doctor how well your medications are working.

How frequently should I go for check up ... ?

The attending eye doctor is the best judge to determine the frequency of the eye examination in a glaucoma patient. It ranges from once in 15 days to once in 3 months in case of open angle glaucoma.Other types may warrant even more frequent examinations.

What is my glaucoma risk ... ?

Glaucoma risk factors are many; Age is one of them. If you are over 40 years of age an annual eye pressure check is recommended. If a blood relative has glaucoma, the risk is higher. Myopia and some systemic discords like diabetes are also associated with high glaucoma risk. Risk factor and actual disease being so different, it is safer to have your eye pressure checked with your eye doctor.