Glaucoma Management

What it involves

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions in which damage to the optic nerve, often linked with raised pressure inside the eye, can reduce vision. Management means regular monitoring, including eye pressure checks, visual field tests and scans of the optic nerve, and treatment that an ophthalmologist chooses, which may include eye drops, laser or surgery.

Who it is for

It is for people diagnosed with glaucoma, those with suspected glaucoma after an eye test, and people at higher risk, such as those with a family history. Early glaucoma often causes no symptoms, so regular eye tests matter.

How long it usually takes

Monitoring visits are repeated, commonly every few months to a year, depending on your condition. Each visit may take an hour with tests.

What to expect

Expect pressure measurements, tests of your field of vision, scans and a review of how your treatment is going. The specialist explains the results and whether the plan needs to change.

Aftercare

Use treatment exactly as prescribed and keep your appointments, because damage cannot be reversed once it occurs, so the aim of treatment is to protect the sight you have. Tell the clinic about any side effects, and keep the eye care team informed of other medicines.

When to seek it

Have regular eye tests, especially if you have a family history, and see an ophthalmologist if referred. Sudden eye pain, redness with blurred vision or halos around lights needs urgent medical attention.

What affects the cost

Cost depends on the number of visits, the tests used, medicines or laser treatment and whether surgery is required. HealthNaro shows a price only where a clinic has supplied a figure with a source and date.

This page is general information and not medical advice. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number.

Sources: NHS; American Academy of Ophthalmology; World Health Organization.