Question 1

What is glaucoma and how does it affect vision?

Accepted Answer

Glaucoma refers to a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve-often from elevated intraocular pressure. It causes irreversible vision loss beginning with peripheral (side) vision and can lead to blindness if untreated.
Source: CDC

Question 2

Can glaucoma be cured or reversed?

Accepted Answer

Glaucoma cannot be cured or reversed; treatments such as eye drops, laser therapy, or surgery can only slow disease progression and help preserve remaining vision.
Source: Mayo Clinic

Question 3

What are the early warning signs of glaucoma?

Accepted Answer

Early glaucoma is often asymptomatic. As it advances, symptoms may include gradual peripheral vision loss, halos around lights, and occasional eye pain-particularly in angle?closure glaucoma.
Source: Cleveland Clinic

Question 4

Are glaucoma and cataracts related?

Accepted Answer

While both are age-related eye conditions and can affect vision, glaucoma damages the optic nerve, while cataracts cloud the eye’s lens. They may coexist but are separate diseases.
Source: Verywell Health

Question 5

How is glaucoma diagnosed?

Accepted Answer

Diagnosis typically involves measuring intraocular pressure (tonometry), assessing optic nerve health through imaging, visual field testing, corneal thickness measurements, and gonioscopy.
Source: Versant Health

Question 6

How is glaucoma treated?

Accepted Answer

Treatment options include medicated eye drops, laser therapy, and surgical procedures to reduce intraocular pressure and prevent further vision loss.

Question 7

Can glaucoma cause blindness?

Accepted Answer

Yes, glaucoma can lead to irreversible blindness if not diagnosed and managed early. However, most people with glaucoma who follow treatment plans retain useful vision.

Question 8

Are glaucoma eye drops expensive?

Accepted Answer

Costs vary. Generic eye drops like timolol or latanoprost may be affordable with insurance or discount programs, while brand-name medications can be costly without coverage.
Source: Verywell Health (prevention & affordability tips)

Question 9

Who is most at risk for glaucoma?

Accepted Answer

People over 60, those with a family history, African Americans, Hispanics, individuals with diabetes, and those with high eye pressure are at increased risk of developing glaucoma.

Question 10

What should glaucoma patients avoid?

Accepted Answer

Patients with glaucoma should avoid skipping medications, using corticosteroids without guidance, or delaying eye exams. Certain yoga poses or activities that increase eye pressure may also be discouraged.

Glaucoma Medications