Protect Your Vision 

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of vision loss in the United States, especially for adults over 60. What makes it particularly dangerous is that it often develops silently, without noticeable symptoms until permanent damage has already occurred. Staying informed—and getting regular eye exams—can make all the difference in protecting your sight. 

Here’s your easy, trustworthy guide to understanding glaucoma: its symptoms, causes, risk factors, and how it’s treated. 

 What Is Glaucoma? 

Glaucoma refers to a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, the part of the eye responsible for sending visual information to the brain. This damage often happens because of increased pressure inside the eye, called intraocular pressure (IOP). 

In a healthy eye, fluid drains out through a small angle inside the eye. When this drainage doesn’t work properly, fluid builds up and pressure rises, slowly injuring the optic nerve and eventually causing vision loss. 

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness for people over age 60—but early detection and treatment can prevent most vision loss. 

 Types of Glaucoma 

The two most common forms include: 

1. Open-Angle Glaucoma (Most Common)

The eye’s drainage system becomes clogged over time, leading to gradually increasing pressure. It causes no pain and almost no symptoms early on. 

2. Angle-Closure Glaucoma (Eye Emergency)

The iris blocks the drainage angle suddenly. Eye pressure spikes quickly, causing pain, redness, and blurred vision. This is a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment. 

Other types include normal-tension glaucoma, congenital glaucoma (in infants), and pigmentary glaucoma. 

Common Symptoms of Glaucoma 

Early Stages – Often No Symptoms 

Most people don’t notice any changes until significant vision loss has occurred. 

As the Disease Progresses: 

• Gradual loss of side (peripheral) vision 

• Patchy blind spots 

Angle-Closure Glaucoma Symptoms (Emergency): 

• Severe eye pain 

• Bad headache 

• Nausea or vomiting 

• Blurred vision or halos around lights 

• Red eye 

Any sudden symptoms should be treated immediately to prevent blindness. 

What Causes Glaucoma? 

Glaucoma is typically caused by damage to the optic nerve due to increased eye pressure. This pressure rises when fluid cannot drain properly from the eye. 

However, glaucoma can also occur even with normal eye pressure, especially in people whose optic nerves are more sensitive. 

Other contributing factors include: 

• Eye injuries 

• Inflammation 

• Certain medications 

• Rarely, complications from eye surgery 

Who Is at Higher Risk? 

Anyone can develop glaucoma, but your risk is higher if you: 

• Are over age 60 

• Are African American over age 40 

• Have a family history of glaucoma 

• Have diabetes 

• Have high eye pressure or other eye conditions 

Half of people with glaucoma don’t know they have it—another reason regular exams are crucial. 

How Is Glaucoma Diagnosed? 

A comprehensive dilated eye exam is the only way to reliably detect glaucoma early. This exam may include: 

• Eye pressure measurement 

• Optic nerve imaging 

• Visual field testing 

Medicare covers an annual glaucoma test for people at high risk. 

How Is Glaucoma Treated? 

While there is no cure, early treatment can prevent or slow further vision loss. Options include: 

• Prescription eye drops to lower eye pressure 

• Oral medications 

• Laser treatments

• Surgery to improve drainage 

With proper, ongoing care, most people with glaucoma can maintain useful vision throughout their lives. 

Prevention & Protecting Your Eyes 

You can lower your risk of vision loss from glaucoma by: 

• Getting regular dilated eye exams 

• Maintaining a healthy weight 

• Staying active 

• Managing blood pressure 

• Avoiding smoking 

Healthy habits don’t just protect your eyes—they support your overall health too. 

Need Help Understanding Your Vision Coverage? 

Whether you’re enrolled in an ACA Marketplace plan, a Medicare Advantage plan, or a stand-alone vision plan, we can help you understand what vision benefits are included and how preventive eye care fits into your coverage. 

If you’re unsure what your plan covers, or need help finding an eye doctor, reach out anytime.
We’re here to help you protect your health, your vision, and your peace of mind. Click here to contact us.